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Deliver #2
Vanquish
Her life is like a prison cell.
A self-made, to-hell-with-the-free-world existence that locks from the inside.
Stop judging. Her agoraphobia doesn’t define her. It simply keeps her safe.
He belongs in a prison cell.
The 6x8, make-me-your-bitch variety that locks from the outside.
But he’s free. To hunt. To take. To break.
And he just found a sexy new toy.
Capturing her is the easy part. Her fucked-up mind, however, makes him question everything he does next.
But he’s a determined bastard. If all goes his way, this will hurt like hell.
DELIVER series (HEAs with no cliffhangers - must be read in order):
Deliver #1
Vanquish #2
Disclaim #3
Devastate #4
Take #5
Manipulate #6
Unshackle #7
Dominate #8
Complicate #9
A self-made, to-hell-with-the-free-world existence that locks from the inside.
Stop judging. Her agoraphobia doesn’t define her. It simply keeps her safe.
He belongs in a prison cell.
The 6x8, make-me-your-bitch variety that locks from the outside.
But he’s free. To hunt. To take. To break.
And he just found a sexy new toy.
Capturing her is the easy part. Her fucked-up mind, however, makes him question everything he does next.
But he’s a determined bastard. If all goes his way, this will hurt like hell.
DELIVER series (HEAs with no cliffhangers - must be read in order):
Deliver #1
Vanquish #2
Disclaim #3
Devastate #4
Take #5
Manipulate #6
Unshackle #7
Dominate #8
Complicate #9
359 pages, Paperback
First published August 23, 2014
About the author
Pam Godwin
42 books10.9k followersNew York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, Pam Godwin, lives in the Midwest with her husband, cats, retired greyhounds, and an old, foul-mouthed parrot. She traveled the world for seven years, attended three universities, married the vocalist of her favorite rock band, and retired from her quantitative analyst career in 2014 to write full-time.
Her interests veer toward the unconventional: bourbon, full-body tattoos, and tragic villains. Equally peculiar are her aversions to sleeping, eating meat, and dolls with blinking eyes.
SIGNED BOOKS and MERCH: pamgodwin.com/shop
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/pamgodwinauthor
TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@pamgodwinauthor
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/pamgodwinbooks
AMAZON: www.amazon.com/author/pamgodwin
Her interests veer toward the unconventional: bourbon, full-body tattoos, and tragic villains. Equally peculiar are her aversions to sleeping, eating meat, and dolls with blinking eyes.
SIGNED BOOKS and MERCH: pamgodwin.com/shop
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/pamgodwinauthor
TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@pamgodwinauthor
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/pamgodwinbooks
AMAZON: www.amazon.com/author/pamgodwin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 762 reviews
November 23, 2015
4 to 4 1/2–Whacked Out–Stars
I love this author! Vanquish is another fabulous read by Pam Godwin.
I'm surprised at how much I loved this book...and Van. Holy cow! I can't believe I became a Van fan. I've been putting off reading his story because, frankly, the guy creeped me out BIG TIME in the first book, Deliver. I wasn't sure I wanted to be in his head or experience his brand of WHACKED OUT crazy. After all, he was somewhat the villain in the first story. Not to mention, his collection of dolls freaked the living daylights out of me....and I collect dolls!!!
I shouldn't have worried, though. Pam Godwin is a talented storyteller and she somehow made me understand, sympathize, and even fall in love with her very unhealthy and somewhat deranged character. Van never fully stopped being his dysfunctional self, but his relationship with the heroine, Amber, helped him somewhat heal and become a better man. Interestingly, the one area that freaked me out the most about him in Deliver—his freaky obsession with collecting and making dolls—was the one area in this book that broke my heart and was a touching aspect of the story. Who would have thought?!
My favorite part of this book was the unique, troublesome, unhealthy and, at times, endearing relationship between Van and Amber. Van did some horrible things in the beginning of this story that reminded me why he was somewhat the villain in the first book, but once a connection was made between him and Amber, I loved their relationship.
Amber was such a fantastic and complex character. She suffered from a very debilitating disorder and a major case of OCD. She's just as messed up, damage, and unhealthy as Van. And, boy, does her brand of crazy give him a run for his money. They actually made for a great team. They may never be fully healthy but together they bring out the best in each other and helped each other heal. I loved that. Seriously, though, these two put the "N" in nuts.
I love the way this author messes with my mind and takes me out of my comfort zone. Her stories are unique, raw, gritty, shocking, troublesome, disturbing, and a bit twisted. Okay, a lot twisted. Even though I didn't feel this book was as dark and disturbing as Deliver, it's still NOT for the faint of heart. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Also, this book can be read as a standalone but I wouldn't suggest it. Deliver really should be read first in order for this story to have its full affect.
WARNING: I can't stress enough that this book is NOT for everyone. It comes with a WARNING DISCLAIMER that should be taken very seriously by potential readers.
I love this author! Vanquish is another fabulous read by Pam Godwin.
I'm surprised at how much I loved this book...and Van. Holy cow! I can't believe I became a Van fan. I've been putting off reading his story because, frankly, the guy creeped me out BIG TIME in the first book, Deliver. I wasn't sure I wanted to be in his head or experience his brand of WHACKED OUT crazy. After all, he was somewhat the villain in the first story. Not to mention, his collection of dolls freaked the living daylights out of me....and I collect dolls!!!
I shouldn't have worried, though. Pam Godwin is a talented storyteller and she somehow made me understand, sympathize, and even fall in love with her very unhealthy and somewhat deranged character. Van never fully stopped being his dysfunctional self, but his relationship with the heroine, Amber, helped him somewhat heal and become a better man. Interestingly, the one area that freaked me out the most about him in Deliver—his freaky obsession with collecting and making dolls—was the one area in this book that broke my heart and was a touching aspect of the story. Who would have thought?!
My favorite part of this book was the unique, troublesome, unhealthy and, at times, endearing relationship between Van and Amber. Van did some horrible things in the beginning of this story that reminded me why he was somewhat the villain in the first book, but once a connection was made between him and Amber, I loved their relationship.
Amber was such a fantastic and complex character. She suffered from a very debilitating disorder and a major case of OCD. She's just as messed up, damage, and unhealthy as Van. And, boy, does her brand of crazy give him a run for his money. They actually made for a great team. They may never be fully healthy but together they bring out the best in each other and helped each other heal. I loved that. Seriously, though, these two put the "N" in nuts.
I love the way this author messes with my mind and takes me out of my comfort zone. Her stories are unique, raw, gritty, shocking, troublesome, disturbing, and a bit twisted. Okay, a lot twisted. Even though I didn't feel this book was as dark and disturbing as Deliver, it's still NOT for the faint of heart. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Also, this book can be read as a standalone but I wouldn't suggest it. Deliver really should be read first in order for this story to have its full affect.
WARNING: I can't stress enough that this book is NOT for everyone. It comes with a WARNING DISCLAIMER that should be taken very seriously by potential readers.
August 19, 2014
5 stars!
First things first, this was brilliant! I have been a ‘Van fan’ from the beginning and his book didn’t disappoint! Before I start my review, I know a lot of people are going to wonder if you can read Vanquish as a stand alone. The answer is yes. The author puts it in the best way- Vanquish is a stand-alone, BUT if you intend to read the first book, Deliver, DO NOT read Vanquish first. There are numerous references in this book that will spoil the surprises in Deliver. If you don’t plan on reading Deliver, carry on. Deliver is a book I would highly recommend, so I say don’t skip out on it!
When I first read DELIVER by Pam Godwin, I was one of the weird ones that loved Van. Yes, he’s a messed up guy with tons of issues and he’s done a lot of terrible things, but I felt like he did some of them with good intentions. Am I delusional for loving him? Maybe. But I don’t care. He’s kind of hard to resist…
Van is dark and dangerous. He would seem to some as more of a villain than a hero. I’m not going to sugar coat it- Van has done some bad and unforgivable things in his past. He is not a ‘good guy’. But for the few people he loves and cares about, he would do anything for them. Van has been working up to something important. He has a plan and he’s trying to figure out a way to go about working his plan. He needs more info. To do that, essentially spies, or stalks on someone… In the process of doing this, he meets a girl named Amber. He can tell straight away something is ‘off’ with Amber.
Amber suffers from agoraphobia. She is self-confined to her home. She is more afraid of being out there than anything. Even if it means being in her home with someone like Van.
Van knows Amber has issues, but there is something about her that makes him want her. Plus, he could use her to help him with his ultimate goal. He knows maybe he shouldn’t… but he can’t help himself. He has to have her.
Pam Godwin has a way about writing damaged characters to perfection. Not only did she give us one damaged main character, but we got two. And it worked. Van and Amber have a ton of issues between them, but in the end, are able to help each other with them. Van’s way of helping Amber was far from conventional… but his heart is in the right place. I think ;)
Every time I hear Pam has a new release coming out I get all kinds of excited, knowing it will be dark, sexy and unique. She’s a brilliant story teller who is exceptional when it comes to writing raw and gritty and putting in the best twists and turns.
The writing was captivating, the story completely sucked me in with it s original and somewhat disturbing story line. It was intense, erotic, emotional and thrilling, but overall- it was a story of overcoming obstacles. Of taking people the way they are, loving not just the good parts of them, but the fucked up parts too. It may push your boundaries at times, but some of the best books do. I fell for Van even more in this book and I loved Amber as well. This is a book, an author, and a series you won’t want to miss out on. It comes very highly recommended by me!!!
First things first, this was brilliant! I have been a ‘Van fan’ from the beginning and his book didn’t disappoint! Before I start my review, I know a lot of people are going to wonder if you can read Vanquish as a stand alone. The answer is yes. The author puts it in the best way- Vanquish is a stand-alone, BUT if you intend to read the first book, Deliver, DO NOT read Vanquish first. There are numerous references in this book that will spoil the surprises in Deliver. If you don’t plan on reading Deliver, carry on. Deliver is a book I would highly recommend, so I say don’t skip out on it!
When I first read DELIVER by Pam Godwin, I was one of the weird ones that loved Van. Yes, he’s a messed up guy with tons of issues and he’s done a lot of terrible things, but I felt like he did some of them with good intentions. Am I delusional for loving him? Maybe. But I don’t care. He’s kind of hard to resist…
Van is dark and dangerous. He would seem to some as more of a villain than a hero. I’m not going to sugar coat it- Van has done some bad and unforgivable things in his past. He is not a ‘good guy’. But for the few people he loves and cares about, he would do anything for them. Van has been working up to something important. He has a plan and he’s trying to figure out a way to go about working his plan. He needs more info. To do that, essentially spies, or stalks on someone… In the process of doing this, he meets a girl named Amber. He can tell straight away something is ‘off’ with Amber.
What was wrong with this girl? The intensity of her fear resonated deep within the depraved part of his being. It was as intoxicating as her beauty, but where did it come from? What was she afraid of?
Amber suffers from agoraphobia. She is self-confined to her home. She is more afraid of being out there than anything. Even if it means being in her home with someone like Van.
Van knows Amber has issues, but there is something about her that makes him want her. Plus, he could use her to help him with his ultimate goal. He knows maybe he shouldn’t… but he can’t help himself. He has to have her.
He should leave the poor girl to deal with her demons, but instinct demanded he take control of this… of her.Amber hasn’t had an easy life. The last two years have been hell. More than that really- with an emotionally abusive ex, along with all her other issues, someone like Van barging into her very structured life is the last thing she wants or needs. Even with all the bad and crazy, Amber sees something in Van. Something that makes her want to stay.
She glanced over his shoulder and took in the menagerie of brokenness with new eyes. It was tragic and beautiful and inspiring.
Pam Godwin has a way about writing damaged characters to perfection. Not only did she give us one damaged main character, but we got two. And it worked. Van and Amber have a ton of issues between them, but in the end, are able to help each other with them. Van’s way of helping Amber was far from conventional… but his heart is in the right place. I think ;)
Every time I hear Pam has a new release coming out I get all kinds of excited, knowing it will be dark, sexy and unique. She’s a brilliant story teller who is exceptional when it comes to writing raw and gritty and putting in the best twists and turns.
The writing was captivating, the story completely sucked me in with it s original and somewhat disturbing story line. It was intense, erotic, emotional and thrilling, but overall- it was a story of overcoming obstacles. Of taking people the way they are, loving not just the good parts of them, but the fucked up parts too. It may push your boundaries at times, but some of the best books do. I fell for Van even more in this book and I loved Amber as well. This is a book, an author, and a series you won’t want to miss out on. It comes very highly recommended by me!!!
Because I like you, too.
June 21, 2016
5 union of lonely souls stars
Amber hasn’t taken two steps outside her home in over two years, officially drowning herself in her own brand of crazy. Imprisoning herself with self-deprecating thoughts, completely immobilized by her fear of her imagination. Her only saving grace is the rigid-control she enforces over her life with her unyielding-routine. No conversation. No deviation. No questions. This all changes the moment she becomes the obsessive fascination of a mad man; after all like recognizes like...
All Van wants is a chance to get to know his kid, but being who he is doesn’t grant him access to that right, especially with Liv and her bodyguards blocking his way. He needed To bleed off the pent-up shit inside of him. To fill the emptiness. To get his fucking mind off Liv Reed. Surprising him to find it in the lost eyes of a woman whose fear was just as beautiful as the woman herself; just a shame she happened to be bat-shit crazy. The challenge she represents is exactly what he needed;
Stripping her from all the control she's used to safe guard herself, she becomes the perfect captive, choosing to accept his brand of medicine than taking the risk out there alone. He wants to be the one she runs too, the one she chooses to keep her safe, her lover and her fighter, her savior and her master.
It's a long road to any sense of normalcy, but who better to help you get there than with the one who scares your demons away...but is it enough???
Vanquish is a tragically-beautiful tale, a perfect imperfection of two broken souls that found any sense of living within each other. I was always curious how Van's story would unfold, after Deliver it as really hard to tell, but in some fucked up tweaked out way I felt for him. There is always a reason for someones actions, and Van is unlike any other, he just had darker demons blocking his light. As crazy as it sounds, In true Pam Godwin style she effortlessly made me fall for a mad man; all in with no regrets.
Amber was such a broken soul, god I felt for her, her fear, her disgust, every aspect of her emotions ran right through me. They were both so real, in their own secluded heaven and hell, there was never a doubt in my mind that they were fated to find each other and heal each other. But it's a dark dark road ahead of them, one that is filled with a good dose of ugly. It's not one I can share too much about, it's just something you have to experience for your self. I'd definitely recommend this to my friends who loves the dark and believes anyone deserves a happily ever after.
Copy generously gifted by author
Amber hasn’t taken two steps outside her home in over two years, officially drowning herself in her own brand of crazy. Imprisoning herself with self-deprecating thoughts, completely immobilized by her fear of her imagination. Her only saving grace is the rigid-control she enforces over her life with her unyielding-routine. No conversation. No deviation. No questions. This all changes the moment she becomes the obsessive fascination of a mad man; after all like recognizes like...
“What are you fighting? Fear?” His mouth touched her ear, his timbre a silken noose around her neck. “Fear is an imposture, little girl. It doesn't bruise or thrust or bite.”
“Fear is not your Master.”
All Van wants is a chance to get to know his kid, but being who he is doesn’t grant him access to that right, especially with Liv and her bodyguards blocking his way. He needed To bleed off the pent-up shit inside of him. To fill the emptiness. To get his fucking mind off Liv Reed. Surprising him to find it in the lost eyes of a woman whose fear was just as beautiful as the woman herself; just a shame she happened to be bat-shit crazy. The challenge she represents is exactly what he needed;
“You don't really know someone until you see them in the dark...I'll show you the dark, my beautiful slave.”
Stripping her from all the control she's used to safe guard herself, she becomes the perfect captive, choosing to accept his brand of medicine than taking the risk out there alone. He wants to be the one she runs too, the one she chooses to keep her safe, her lover and her fighter, her savior and her master.
“What are we doing?”
“Let's call it an exorcism. I'm not officially trained, but I'm well-versed in demons.”
It's a long road to any sense of normalcy, but who better to help you get there than with the one who scares your demons away...but is it enough???
Vanquish is a tragically-beautiful tale, a perfect imperfection of two broken souls that found any sense of living within each other. I was always curious how Van's story would unfold, after Deliver it as really hard to tell, but in some fucked up tweaked out way I felt for him. There is always a reason for someones actions, and Van is unlike any other, he just had darker demons blocking his light. As crazy as it sounds, In true Pam Godwin style she effortlessly made me fall for a mad man; all in with no regrets.
Amber was such a broken soul, god I felt for her, her fear, her disgust, every aspect of her emotions ran right through me. They were both so real, in their own secluded heaven and hell, there was never a doubt in my mind that they were fated to find each other and heal each other. But it's a dark dark road ahead of them, one that is filled with a good dose of ugly. It's not one I can share too much about, it's just something you have to experience for your self. I'd definitely recommend this to my friends who loves the dark and believes anyone deserves a happily ever after.
Copy generously gifted by author
Shelved as 'wrote'
August 29, 2022First Book FREE:
Deliver - pamgodwin.com/book/deliver/
(Each book is a different couple. No cliffhangers.)
VANQUISH
Amazon: mybook.to/vanquish
Apple: apple.co/1p8zltK
Kobo: bit.ly/3iXPRkC
B&N: bit.ly/2Jxrisf
Google: tinyurl.com/yyu4aej3
Audible: adbl.co/2X8g4Cq
Signed Paperback: pamgodwin.com/product/vanquish
Image:
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Deliver - pamgodwin.com/book/deliver/
(Each book is a different couple. No cliffhangers.)
VANQUISH
Amazon: mybook.to/vanquish
Apple: apple.co/1p8zltK
Kobo: bit.ly/3iXPRkC
B&N: bit.ly/2Jxrisf
Google: tinyurl.com/yyu4aej3
Audible: adbl.co/2X8g4Cq
Signed Paperback: pamgodwin.com/product/vanquish
Image:
image:
image:
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August 26, 2014
4.5 Stars
Can you take a cold, sadistic, and practically nonredeemable hero and not only feel for him but completely fall for him by the end of the book?
YES
Can you take a heroine that's so fucked up and insecure but make her come across as fierce and give her an inner core of strength that manages to shine through even during her darkest hours?
YES
Can you take a relationship that by all intents and purposes begins as something that should be a horror story but make you understand it, feel it, and completely turn it around into something brighter by the end of the story?
FUCK.YES.
For those of you that are curious if you can read this book if you haven't read Deliver
YES
That's exactly what I did. As much as I adore Pam Godwin's writing, I knew based on some details I'd gleaned from the first book that it just wasn't my cuppa, so I decided to pass on it. But when Isaw the cover read the blurb for this book? I knew this was not a book I'd be passing up in a million years. See I have this thing for the anti-heroes and the assholes. As in, the more fucked up they are, the more I love them. Messed up? Maybe. But fuck me if Van didn't fit my requirement to the T.
Now most people would probably spend the first half of this book conflicted. You'll want to hate Van for what he does, or maybe you WILL hate Van for everything he does. Me? I gobbled it up like the starved little pervert that I am.
From the very beginning the author gives you little tidbits of insight of who Van really is; his childhood, his past, his scars...both internal and external. As a matter of fact she gives you just enough to make you almost feel for him in the first half. I was afraid that his almost obsession with Liv would make it so that Amber would feel more like his consolation prize. But luckily that's not at all how it was. As a matter of fact, I though the author pulled this off flawlessly.
Vanquish begins immediately where Deliver took off; Van being shot by Liv but surviving. But just because Liv has a new life now, doesn't mean that Van has let her go. Stalking is what he does best, so that's what he does. He lurks in the shadows, watching her house and her new life with her new boyfriend all while plotting on how to get close to her to get what he wants; information. In his stalking under the shadows of what he thinks is an abandoned house, he inadvertently stumbles onto the owner and who he decides will be his new victim, Amber.
Now Amber was a character I was afraid I would hate at first. How would I sum her up? Fucked the fuck up. That probably does it. Yep.
She's agoraphobic, OCD, with an eating disorder and self esteem issues to boot. Bitch got issues is what I'm trying to tell you here. But beneath all her problems, she had this understated strength and an almost fierceness to her. Sounds strange doesn't it? But it's very true. And as the story progresses, more and more of her personality shines through and you simply can't help but like her. Van was definitely not immune either
The first half of this book is no light read. Van is one sadistic and cruel fuck, and that certainly doesn't go away the second he lays eyes on Amber. While you may get small peeks into the damaged soul of a boy that lurks beneath the scary and cold exterior, he doesn't exactly endear you with his actions toward Amber.
But that's also the thing that I liked. Pam Godwin managed to take one fucked up hero and make his transition into someone more endearing and softer in a believable way. It didn't happen in the blink of an eye, and I appreciated that because that would have completely killed the book for me. His road to redemption was a slow and painful one. Considering his background, history and parentage, I couldn't envision this any other way.
His journey to redemption was slow, but believable and oh so satisfying when it came. The author truly makes you understand the damaged child beneath the cruel man. As much as you want to hate him for his actions, you can't help but also feel for him at the same time. At least I know I did.
I absolutely loved the epilogue. What a perfect way to end the book. If you're a fan of dark romance, this is not to be missed.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
He was a cold-hearted fuck with an appetite for blood, come, and tears. And he had the perfect girl to feed it.
Can you take a cold, sadistic, and practically nonredeemable hero and not only feel for him but completely fall for him by the end of the book?
YES
Can you take a heroine that's so fucked up and insecure but make her come across as fierce and give her an inner core of strength that manages to shine through even during her darkest hours?
YES
Can you take a relationship that by all intents and purposes begins as something that should be a horror story but make you understand it, feel it, and completely turn it around into something brighter by the end of the story?
FUCK.YES.
For those of you that are curious if you can read this book if you haven't read Deliver
YES
That's exactly what I did. As much as I adore Pam Godwin's writing, I knew based on some details I'd gleaned from the first book that it just wasn't my cuppa, so I decided to pass on it. But when I
Now most people would probably spend the first half of this book conflicted. You'll want to hate Van for what he does, or maybe you WILL hate Van for everything he does. Me? I gobbled it up like the starved little pervert that I am.
From the very beginning the author gives you little tidbits of insight of who Van really is; his childhood, his past, his scars...both internal and external. As a matter of fact she gives you just enough to make you almost feel for him in the first half. I was afraid that his almost obsession with Liv would make it so that Amber would feel more like his consolation prize. But luckily that's not at all how it was. As a matter of fact, I though the author pulled this off flawlessly.
Vanquish begins immediately where Deliver took off; Van being shot by Liv but surviving. But just because Liv has a new life now, doesn't mean that Van has let her go. Stalking is what he does best, so that's what he does. He lurks in the shadows, watching her house and her new life with her new boyfriend all while plotting on how to get close to her to get what he wants; information. In his stalking under the shadows of what he thinks is an abandoned house, he inadvertently stumbles onto the owner and who he decides will be his new victim, Amber.
Now Amber was a character I was afraid I would hate at first. How would I sum her up? Fucked the fuck up. That probably does it. Yep.
She's agoraphobic, OCD, with an eating disorder and self esteem issues to boot. Bitch got issues is what I'm trying to tell you here. But beneath all her problems, she had this understated strength and an almost fierceness to her. Sounds strange doesn't it? But it's very true. And as the story progresses, more and more of her personality shines through and you simply can't help but like her. Van was definitely not immune either
The first half of this book is no light read. Van is one sadistic and cruel fuck, and that certainly doesn't go away the second he lays eyes on Amber. While you may get small peeks into the damaged soul of a boy that lurks beneath the scary and cold exterior, he doesn't exactly endear you with his actions toward Amber.
But that's also the thing that I liked. Pam Godwin managed to take one fucked up hero and make his transition into someone more endearing and softer in a believable way. It didn't happen in the blink of an eye, and I appreciated that because that would have completely killed the book for me. His road to redemption was a slow and painful one. Considering his background, history and parentage, I couldn't envision this any other way.
His journey to redemption was slow, but believable and oh so satisfying when it came. The author truly makes you understand the damaged child beneath the cruel man. As much as you want to hate him for his actions, you can't help but also feel for him at the same time. At least I know I did.
I absolutely loved the epilogue. What a perfect way to end the book. If you're a fan of dark romance, this is not to be missed.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
October 14, 2021
💫
ᴛʜᴇsᴇ ᴛᴡᴏ
”Opening peoples’ mail is a federal offense, you sick pig.”
He smirked. Couldn’t argue with the truth. “Don’t insult pigs. It’s dirty, and the pig likes it.”
“Until they’re slaughtered,” she yelled, “and served with eggs and coffee.”
A smile tickled his cheeks. “You inviting me to stay for breakfast?”
srsly with their lil interactions like this the moment they met, i knew i’d like these two a hell more a lot than boring ass joshua
’For a little thing, she sure had a big voice when she was angry. It was really quite cute, and he suddenly wanted to know if she was ticklish. What a fucked up thought, and probably not the time to explore it. She appeared to be seconds from self-destructing. He glanced at the front door. He should be the shallow bastard and leave, but the challenge invigorated him. God help him, but he wanted to lose his mind with this crazy woman.’
girlie, if u hated Van in the first book as much as i did (which was not much lol. but i’m talking bout him as a character. how he didn’t care bout nothin at all, etc) then see how sweet his lil thoughts are for ambs here, it’s pretty damn heartwarming
”What’s wrong with you?”
Her face twisted, and she hugged herself. “My stomach hurts.”
He studied her tightening posture, bent spine, and defensive tuck of her arms. “Maybe you need to take a shit.”
She cringed. “You did not just say that.”
He’d bet his right testicle she’d never so much as farted in front of her ex, let alone discussed her bowel movements with him. He shrugged. “A good dump always makes me feel better.”
“You seriously don’t have any boundaries.”
Boundaries were for the scared and weak. “At least I’m not constipated. Want a laxative?”
i laughed, which was not expected from this series. but daddy quiso and his charming blunt mouth can kidnap me anytime. pick a date
Her shriek echoed through the cabin. “Hands off my ass!” She reached back, wriggling to his delight, her fingers curling around his wrists. “I mean it.”
He released her, chuckling. “Darling, my hands and your ass are meant to be together. Don’t fuck with destiny.”
She sighed, adjusting the dress, but he didn’t miss the smile dimpling her face.
“You’re insufferable.” She shook her head, then flew up the remaining steps, and vanished into the loft, leaving him standing there grinning like a fool. A deliriously happy fool.
The scar on his face bristled with his smile, itching. His lips fell, his fingers rubbing his cheek. She could cut him far deeper than a bullet or a knife.
he grinned! he was grinning like a fool. did u see that? van in book 1 who?
’Before he could catch his breath, she curled around him, arm hooked at his back and leg nudging between his.
Christ Almighty, what a goddamned fulfilling feeling, her hard feminine muscles and soft curves all up against him. He rolled to his back and savored the warm weight of her tight body pressed against his side. She felt fucking amazing, all relaxed and accepting, holding him as if she appreciated the intimacy as much as he did.
This was his new favorite position, and his dick wasn’t even inside her. Hell, he wasn’t even hard.
How was it that just twelve hours ago he’d held her at gunpoint, drugged her, and forced himself inside her. How could she have admitted she liked him or have any desire to snuggle against his body? But she had, and she was.
She wasn’t normal.
They would never be normal. It just wasn’t in their blood. He gripped her thigh, hooking it over his, and coiled his fingers around her hair. Fuck normal.’
it’s their development tho, man. from this :
”You’re going to rape me, aren’t you?”
His torso moved up and down with his breath. “I thought you wanted to be fuck buddies. Don’t make it weird.”
to this :
”I’ve never talked about this.”
He dropped his mouth to her shoulder and murmured, “I swear, Amber, I’ll burn off my dick if I ever use this to hurt you.” He meant it with a startling passion. He stood. “You’re going to sit there and tell me about the anxiety while I fix dinner.”
their love / like / affection / attraction was v insta, but it didn’t feel like it at all. it’s like they’re made for each other and u just know, y’know? i have no evidence to back up that fact, it’s just a gut thing. they’re meant to be together. period
ᴠᴀɴ
’The worst part about being a sick bastard was the internal view of his perversions. He’d watch, like a helpless witness, as his body instilled fear in the eyes of his captives, his memories molding them into a weaker version of himself. In those moments, when his hands became manacles and his strikes connected with flesh, he beat the living shit out of the pathetic boy he once was. Nothing was more therapeutic. Or fucked up.’
Van Quiso. how i’m conflicted on how to feel bout thee. on one hand, i hated him on book 1 and wonder how could the author redeem his character in his own book. (more so coz i hated it when the hero in a book was obsessed over a heroine from another book), but also coz he raped and beat both women (previous heroine, Liv and this heroine, Amber). and aside from being a stalker / kidnapper (to Liv and Amber), he was involved in a human trafficking / sex slavery business & has also murdered few people over the years. a hell of an improvement from boring ass submissive choir boy lost little puppy that is joshua carter though, thats for sure, hence why i ended up liking him a lot <3 <3
another thing, everyone seemed to remember Van and toothpick as his signature, but everytime i heard his name, all it reminded me of is his creepy ass dolls & mannequins collection, which were also hilarious
ᴀᴍʙᴇʀ
”What’s the leather dye for?” He turned the bottles in the envelope, revealing directions on how to dye shoes and furniture. “Fixing up a pair of cowgirl boots?” Fuck, those toned legs would radiate sex in a miniskirt and boots.
She growled, loud and guttural, and the door thumped again. “After I flay the skin from your body, I’m going to dye it and sew it into a handbag. Special order from your momma.”
i liked her. character wise, Liv is probably more interesting & badass etc. but Liv and i, we just couldn’t connect. Amber however, idk what it is bout her that made her POV much more lively than Liv’s ever was to me. Amber suffers OCD, agoraphobia, bulimia (and i think there’s more i don’t remember). her OCD alone made me hooked reading from her pov right from the start. it’s like being i my head
ᴏᴠᴇʀᴀʟʟ
loved this. didn’t expect that coz the previous book was a fail for me. i just wanted more blablabla. i loved particularly the scenes where Van helped Amber w/ her illness. his method was pretty extreme but alas. it worked. i’ve a thing for broody mean hardass coaches and van really delivered
ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ
their cameos in the next books <3 w/ many flaws as it is i’m upgrading the rating fuck it. Van is bae
’He was her mirror in a way. They both carried a million cracks beneath the skin. Even under the stark light of the fluorescents, it was hard to see which of them was more broken. But for the first time, she felt like she had to vanquish her mental illness not for herself but for someone else. Because she was broken with him, and if she fixed herself, maybe she could make him a little less broken, too.’
ᴛʜᴇsᴇ ᴛᴡᴏ
”Opening peoples’ mail is a federal offense, you sick pig.”
He smirked. Couldn’t argue with the truth. “Don’t insult pigs. It’s dirty, and the pig likes it.”
“Until they’re slaughtered,” she yelled, “and served with eggs and coffee.”
A smile tickled his cheeks. “You inviting me to stay for breakfast?”
srsly with their lil interactions like this the moment they met, i knew i’d like these two a hell more a lot than boring ass joshua
’For a little thing, she sure had a big voice when she was angry. It was really quite cute, and he suddenly wanted to know if she was ticklish. What a fucked up thought, and probably not the time to explore it. She appeared to be seconds from self-destructing. He glanced at the front door. He should be the shallow bastard and leave, but the challenge invigorated him. God help him, but he wanted to lose his mind with this crazy woman.’
girlie, if u hated Van in the first book as much as i did (which was not much lol. but i’m talking bout him as a character. how he didn’t care bout nothin at all, etc) then see how sweet his lil thoughts are for ambs here, it’s pretty damn heartwarming
”What’s wrong with you?”
Her face twisted, and she hugged herself. “My stomach hurts.”
He studied her tightening posture, bent spine, and defensive tuck of her arms. “Maybe you need to take a shit.”
She cringed. “You did not just say that.”
He’d bet his right testicle she’d never so much as farted in front of her ex, let alone discussed her bowel movements with him. He shrugged. “A good dump always makes me feel better.”
“You seriously don’t have any boundaries.”
Boundaries were for the scared and weak. “At least I’m not constipated. Want a laxative?”
i laughed, which was not expected from this series. but daddy quiso and his charming blunt mouth can kidnap me anytime. pick a date
Her shriek echoed through the cabin. “Hands off my ass!” She reached back, wriggling to his delight, her fingers curling around his wrists. “I mean it.”
He released her, chuckling. “Darling, my hands and your ass are meant to be together. Don’t fuck with destiny.”
She sighed, adjusting the dress, but he didn’t miss the smile dimpling her face.
“You’re insufferable.” She shook her head, then flew up the remaining steps, and vanished into the loft, leaving him standing there grinning like a fool. A deliriously happy fool.
The scar on his face bristled with his smile, itching. His lips fell, his fingers rubbing his cheek. She could cut him far deeper than a bullet or a knife.
he grinned! he was grinning like a fool. did u see that? van in book 1 who?
’Before he could catch his breath, she curled around him, arm hooked at his back and leg nudging between his.
Christ Almighty, what a goddamned fulfilling feeling, her hard feminine muscles and soft curves all up against him. He rolled to his back and savored the warm weight of her tight body pressed against his side. She felt fucking amazing, all relaxed and accepting, holding him as if she appreciated the intimacy as much as he did.
This was his new favorite position, and his dick wasn’t even inside her. Hell, he wasn’t even hard.
How was it that just twelve hours ago he’d held her at gunpoint, drugged her, and forced himself inside her. How could she have admitted she liked him or have any desire to snuggle against his body? But she had, and she was.
She wasn’t normal.
They would never be normal. It just wasn’t in their blood. He gripped her thigh, hooking it over his, and coiled his fingers around her hair. Fuck normal.’
it’s their development tho, man. from this :
”You’re going to rape me, aren’t you?”
His torso moved up and down with his breath. “I thought you wanted to be fuck buddies. Don’t make it weird.”
to this :
”I’ve never talked about this.”
He dropped his mouth to her shoulder and murmured, “I swear, Amber, I’ll burn off my dick if I ever use this to hurt you.” He meant it with a startling passion. He stood. “You’re going to sit there and tell me about the anxiety while I fix dinner.”
their love / like / affection / attraction was v insta, but it didn’t feel like it at all. it’s like they’re made for each other and u just know, y’know? i have no evidence to back up that fact, it’s just a gut thing. they’re meant to be together. period
ᴠᴀɴ
’The worst part about being a sick bastard was the internal view of his perversions. He’d watch, like a helpless witness, as his body instilled fear in the eyes of his captives, his memories molding them into a weaker version of himself. In those moments, when his hands became manacles and his strikes connected with flesh, he beat the living shit out of the pathetic boy he once was. Nothing was more therapeutic. Or fucked up.’
Van Quiso. how i’m conflicted on how to feel bout thee. on one hand, i hated him on book 1 and wonder how could the author redeem his character in his own book. (more so coz i hated it when the hero in a book was obsessed over a heroine from another book), but also coz he raped and beat both women (previous heroine, Liv and this heroine, Amber). and aside from being a stalker / kidnapper (to Liv and Amber), he was involved in a human trafficking / sex slavery business & has also murdered few people over the years. a hell of an improvement from boring ass submissive choir boy lost little puppy that is joshua carter though, thats for sure, hence why i ended up liking him a lot <3 <3
another thing, everyone seemed to remember Van and toothpick as his signature, but everytime i heard his name, all it reminded me of is his creepy ass dolls & mannequins collection, which were also hilarious
ᴀᴍʙᴇʀ
”What’s the leather dye for?” He turned the bottles in the envelope, revealing directions on how to dye shoes and furniture. “Fixing up a pair of cowgirl boots?” Fuck, those toned legs would radiate sex in a miniskirt and boots.
She growled, loud and guttural, and the door thumped again. “After I flay the skin from your body, I’m going to dye it and sew it into a handbag. Special order from your momma.”
i liked her. character wise, Liv is probably more interesting & badass etc. but Liv and i, we just couldn’t connect. Amber however, idk what it is bout her that made her POV much more lively than Liv’s ever was to me. Amber suffers OCD, agoraphobia, bulimia (and i think there’s more i don’t remember). her OCD alone made me hooked reading from her pov right from the start. it’s like being i my head
ᴏᴠᴇʀᴀʟʟ
loved this. didn’t expect that coz the previous book was a fail for me. i just wanted more blablabla. i loved particularly the scenes where Van helped Amber w/ her illness. his method was pretty extreme but alas. it worked. i’ve a thing for broody mean hardass coaches and van really delivered
ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ
their cameos in the next books <3 w/ many flaws as it is i’m upgrading the rating fuck it. Van is bae
August 26, 2014
Live on AMAZON
************************
4 stars!!
Pam Godwin has a knack for writing unconventional, unique romance stories and Vanquish is a terrific example. Just FYI, if you plan on reading book 1 Deliver do not read this one yet – it contains plot spoilers. Anyways, I’m a huge fan of the broody, dark, and torturedanti heroes. In book 1, the only character I can say that I fully loved was Van. Liv was pretty kickass but too aloof. Josh was endearing but too sweet. But Van…now that’s a guy who’s right up my alley! I couldn’t wait to get my greedy hands on his book and now that I’ve finished it, I can say that fans of the first book and Van-fans will be pretty pleased with his story.
********************
This book begins right after the events of Deliver, where Van Quiso is recovering from his wounds and the one thing that dominates his mind is getting Liv and their daughter back. Obsessed and possessed by this fervor, Van constantly stalks Liv in hopes of winning her back from Josh, along with getting visitation rights to their daughter Livana. On one of his secret trips to visit Liv, he unwittingly stumbles upon the heroine Amber and his old, buried sexual tendencies flare. For the first time in a long time, he’s tempted by Amber.
Introverted and secluded, Amber Rosenfeld suffers from extreme agoraphobia (anxiety disorder) and OCD. Her previous marriage has demolished her self-confidence and body image and any kind of intimacy repels her. It is truly a chance encounter that puts her in Van’s path and with just one look, Van is intrigued by her and her oddities.
********************
My biggest concern with reading this book was whether or not the author would butcher Van’s dark, multifaceted, mysterious character and I’m relieved to say I don’t think she did. When a character as complex as Van gets a romance story, there’s a certain degree of ‘dark’ that has to be given up and in turn is replaced with a much softer, vulnerable side of him. I think the author did an exemplary job of pitting his usual crude high-handedness against the vulnerability most readers didn’t think existed. Van is basically what made this book, despite it also being Amber’s story. Though I liked her character, I never fully warmed up to her. Then again, it’s not often I fall head over heels for the heroines ;) I really loved seeing Van transform from a seemingly heartless machine to a more caring and loving man. His past as a slave driver never will go away but I admire him for not letting it define his life and instead, motivate him to be with Amber and help her conquer her agoraphobia.
As much as I liked Amber and Van as a couple, I had a hard time accepting them together in the beginning. I mentioned before that it was pure luck that they bumped into each other and the fact that Van was completely obsessed with getting Liv and their daughter back didn’t help convince me of the strength of his bond with Amber. I felt like his reasons for being with Amber weren’t compelling enough in the beginning. I should feel like only the heroine is good for the hero, but sadly I didn’t feel that here. Amber could be a Leslie, a Catherine, a Grace and it wouldn’t have made a difference. Once the deep feelings were there, however, I could finally accept them together but that didn’t happen until the 60% mark so I spent most of the book feeling aloof, not loving them, but not hating them.
That one main problem aside, I really enjoyed this book – it had hot, steamy scenes along with dry, crude humor and charming wit. The idea that even the most flawed and damaged people can have a happily-ever-after too is a beautiful message and one that this book sends out.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
************************
4 stars!!
Pam Godwin has a knack for writing unconventional, unique romance stories and Vanquish is a terrific example. Just FYI, if you plan on reading book 1 Deliver do not read this one yet – it contains plot spoilers. Anyways, I’m a huge fan of the broody, dark, and tortured
********************
This book begins right after the events of Deliver, where Van Quiso is recovering from his wounds and the one thing that dominates his mind is getting Liv and their daughter back. Obsessed and possessed by this fervor, Van constantly stalks Liv in hopes of winning her back from Josh, along with getting visitation rights to their daughter Livana. On one of his secret trips to visit Liv, he unwittingly stumbles upon the heroine Amber and his old, buried sexual tendencies flare. For the first time in a long time, he’s tempted by Amber.
Introverted and secluded, Amber Rosenfeld suffers from extreme agoraphobia (anxiety disorder) and OCD. Her previous marriage has demolished her self-confidence and body image and any kind of intimacy repels her. It is truly a chance encounter that puts her in Van’s path and with just one look, Van is intrigued by her and her oddities.
********************
My biggest concern with reading this book was whether or not the author would butcher Van’s dark, multifaceted, mysterious character and I’m relieved to say I don’t think she did. When a character as complex as Van gets a romance story, there’s a certain degree of ‘dark’ that has to be given up and in turn is replaced with a much softer, vulnerable side of him. I think the author did an exemplary job of pitting his usual crude high-handedness against the vulnerability most readers didn’t think existed. Van is basically what made this book, despite it also being Amber’s story. Though I liked her character, I never fully warmed up to her. Then again, it’s not often I fall head over heels for the heroines ;) I really loved seeing Van transform from a seemingly heartless machine to a more caring and loving man. His past as a slave driver never will go away but I admire him for not letting it define his life and instead, motivate him to be with Amber and help her conquer her agoraphobia.
As much as I liked Amber and Van as a couple, I had a hard time accepting them together in the beginning. I mentioned before that it was pure luck that they bumped into each other and the fact that Van was completely obsessed with getting Liv and their daughter back didn’t help convince me of the strength of his bond with Amber. I felt like his reasons for being with Amber weren’t compelling enough in the beginning. I should feel like only the heroine is good for the hero, but sadly I didn’t feel that here. Amber could be a Leslie, a Catherine, a Grace and it wouldn’t have made a difference. Once the deep feelings were there, however, I could finally accept them together but that didn’t happen until the 60% mark so I spent most of the book feeling aloof, not loving them, but not hating them.
That one main problem aside, I really enjoyed this book – it had hot, steamy scenes along with dry, crude humor and charming wit. The idea that even the most flawed and damaged people can have a happily-ever-after too is a beautiful message and one that this book sends out.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2014
★★★★☆ 4.5 Stars! *Full review now posted*
Vanquish by Pam Godwin was once again an absolute success by this author. When I first met Van, the book's male lead, in book one of this series, Deliver, I was both intrigued and appalled by him. He was an interesting character that I couldn't wait to find out more about, that's for sure. And even though Vanquish can be read as a standalone, I would highly recommend reading Deliver first, because this book contains quite a lot of spoilers for book one, so in case you're planning to read both books, I'd suggest starting with Deliver first.
So, as I said, Van Quiso is a character that provoked a lot of conflicting feelings while I was reading Deliver. He's one of those characters you hate to love and love to hate. He's done a lot of terrible things, but at the same time, he's trying to somewhat redeem himself and ultimately his heart is in the right place. While trying to win back Liv, the heroine of book one, he meets a girl named Amber. Amber Rosenfeld is a shy, introverted girl who suffers from extreme agoraphobia (anxiety disorder) and OCD. She's certainly not the kind of girl who would normally capture Van's attention but her oddities spark his interest and he feels compelled to help her get rid of her anxieties.
"You don't really know someone until you see them in the dark. I'll show you the dark, my beautiful slave."
The meeting between Van and Amber is a pure chance encounter, but one that will chance both their lives drastically. The main message this story tries to tell is that even the most damaged, broken individuals can find love, healing and a happily ever after. It was an interesting proces to see a seemingly cold and heartless man like Van transform into a sweet and caring partner to someone like Amber. Despite their differences, they both managed to help each other overcome their painful pasts and even though I wasn't fully convinced of the strength of their bond and connection at first, after a while they both had me rooting for their happy ending.
"He should leave the poor girl to deal with her demons, but instinct demanded he take control of this… of her."
This author has a way of storytelling that grabs your attention, pulls you in and doesn't let you go until you've reached the final page. There was never a dull moment throughout the entire story and just like the first book of the series, the book does have a somewhat dark, at times, disturbing storyline but there is an equal amount of steam, humor and romance to make for a perfect balance between dark and light. So far I've loved every single one of this author's books and I'm already anxiously looking forward to see what she has next in store for us!
Highly recommended dark romance read.
"Fuck him, but he wanted to be her security, her anchor, her fucking everything."
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
July 15, 2015
4.5 Break my heart and put it back together STARS!
“Eliminating the toxicity in your life is not a failure. It's curative and courageous and never, ever easy.”
Vanquish is the second book in the Deliver Series. Pam Godwin left me breathless after reading the first book in the series Deliver. Deliver is the heart wrenching story of Liv and Josh and (the one man who was left out of the HEA equation) VAN! Vanquish is what happens after Deliver. It is a story of transformation, growth, pain, and HOPE! I highly recommend reading Deliver before you read Vanquish.
Amber is a beautiful girl on the outside who feels broken and damaged on the inside. She suffers with OCD, bulimia, and agoraphobia. She has been hiding for years in her house. She is desperate to stick to her routine. However, her life is about to be turned upside down.
Van has escaped the clutches of Mr. E. He has survived the loss of Liv and his daughter Livana. He is alive. But is he really living? Van is a broken "complex" man. He can't forget his past. He spends night after night spying on Liv and Josh. He just wants to find out what he can about his daughter and find solace in being near Liv. He may have been searching for solace through his past with Liv however, his salvation is waiting for him right next door.
"Amber was a conundrum of distraction. In one night, she'd managed to divert his obsession from Liv."-Van
Amber and Van have a violent, passionate, sexual, and tender relationship. They have to learn to trust each other in order for them to find healing. I can't and won't elaborate on the events that take place between Amber and Van. I will only share that every single painful moment was felt deep in my gut. Every tender moment will forever be etched in my brain and in my heart. Amber and Van bring a new meaning to the term verbal banter. The verbal tennis match between these two kept me entertained the entire read.
“After I flay the skin from your body, I'm going to dye it and sew it into a handbag. Special order from your momma.”-Amber
“If you lose your shit, I'm tossing you on the porch.” He stabbed a finger at the front door."-Van
All of the questions about Van's past are answered. Van, Amber, Josh, and Liv have all been through hell. After the heartbreak and brokenness, can they truly find happiness?
“Love and hate are closely related expressions of the same intensity. Both require passion, and neither follows logic.”-Amber
Vanquish is another jackpot for the talented Ms. Godwin. I would certainly classify Vanquish as an emotional thriller because the physical violence was a "little" less intense then it's predecessor. The writing is detailed in a way that you feel as if you have been swept into each scene. Spending a day in the minds of Van and Amber is enough to make anyone hit the bottle. As the plot unfolds, you are on pins and needles the entire read. I have never wanted a happy ending more for a character then I have for Van.
“He loved me enough to shove me out the door.”-Amber
Any doubt that I had in Pam Godwin's ability to right the wrongs in Van's life have been completely obliterated. She created such a deliciously twisted tale of pain and somehow made everything ok. I will never forget this series. I highly recommend Vanquish to anyone who wants to be challenged. You will want to scream, you will want to cry, you will want to wrap your arms around the characters and hold them tight. You will be glad that you read this and you will be so sorry if you don't. And now the question is, which Godwin book do I want to read next?
“I love you, I want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you.”-Van
BR remix with my girl CC!
“Eliminating the toxicity in your life is not a failure. It's curative and courageous and never, ever easy.”
Vanquish is the second book in the Deliver Series. Pam Godwin left me breathless after reading the first book in the series Deliver. Deliver is the heart wrenching story of Liv and Josh and (the one man who was left out of the HEA equation) VAN! Vanquish is what happens after Deliver. It is a story of transformation, growth, pain, and HOPE! I highly recommend reading Deliver before you read Vanquish.
Amber is a beautiful girl on the outside who feels broken and damaged on the inside. She suffers with OCD, bulimia, and agoraphobia. She has been hiding for years in her house. She is desperate to stick to her routine. However, her life is about to be turned upside down.
Van has escaped the clutches of Mr. E. He has survived the loss of Liv and his daughter Livana. He is alive. But is he really living? Van is a broken "complex" man. He can't forget his past. He spends night after night spying on Liv and Josh. He just wants to find out what he can about his daughter and find solace in being near Liv. He may have been searching for solace through his past with Liv however, his salvation is waiting for him right next door.
"Amber was a conundrum of distraction. In one night, she'd managed to divert his obsession from Liv."-Van
Amber and Van have a violent, passionate, sexual, and tender relationship. They have to learn to trust each other in order for them to find healing. I can't and won't elaborate on the events that take place between Amber and Van. I will only share that every single painful moment was felt deep in my gut. Every tender moment will forever be etched in my brain and in my heart. Amber and Van bring a new meaning to the term verbal banter. The verbal tennis match between these two kept me entertained the entire read.
“After I flay the skin from your body, I'm going to dye it and sew it into a handbag. Special order from your momma.”-Amber
“If you lose your shit, I'm tossing you on the porch.” He stabbed a finger at the front door."-Van
All of the questions about Van's past are answered. Van, Amber, Josh, and Liv have all been through hell. After the heartbreak and brokenness, can they truly find happiness?
“Love and hate are closely related expressions of the same intensity. Both require passion, and neither follows logic.”-Amber
Vanquish is another jackpot for the talented Ms. Godwin. I would certainly classify Vanquish as an emotional thriller because the physical violence was a "little" less intense then it's predecessor. The writing is detailed in a way that you feel as if you have been swept into each scene. Spending a day in the minds of Van and Amber is enough to make anyone hit the bottle. As the plot unfolds, you are on pins and needles the entire read. I have never wanted a happy ending more for a character then I have for Van.
“He loved me enough to shove me out the door.”-Amber
Any doubt that I had in Pam Godwin's ability to right the wrongs in Van's life have been completely obliterated. She created such a deliciously twisted tale of pain and somehow made everything ok. I will never forget this series. I highly recommend Vanquish to anyone who wants to be challenged. You will want to scream, you will want to cry, you will want to wrap your arms around the characters and hold them tight. You will be glad that you read this and you will be so sorry if you don't. And now the question is, which Godwin book do I want to read next?
“I love you, I want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you.”-Van
BR remix with my girl CC!
November 13, 2014
5 F%&ked Up Squared Stars
Wow, Pam Godwin, you straight brought it with this one.
I loved Van in the first one (I actually connected more to him than Josh), but I wasn't sure how he could be redeemed or if could even be done. But dA-amn girl, this was awesome!
Full review later.
Wow, Pam Godwin, you straight brought it with this one.
I loved Van in the first one (I actually connected more to him than Josh), but I wasn't sure how he could be redeemed or if could even be done. But dA-amn girl, this was awesome!
Full review later.
October 20, 2014
MY INTERVIEW WITH VAN plus a giveaway -> http://bit.ly/1wjLim3
Brilliant! I was hooked from the first page until the last page.
I first met Van in ”Deliver” and he seemed so detached and menacing that I held him at distance. I was unsure if I could soften to him or not. When Ms. Godwin announced that there would be a Van book I knew I had to read it. I needed to know what made Van so disconnected and yet so frightening.
Van happened upon Amber on one of his nightly stalking adventures of Liv (from Deliver). Amber has issues. She suffers from OCD and agoraphobia. In little ways I could relate to Amber: her use of sarcasm, doing things in symmetrical groups of four (I don’t do that BUT four is my favorite number), and her OCD (I tend to be OCD when it comes to organizing my books, etc. I like to think of it as JUST being organized). One last way I could relate to Amber is with her former profession. My niece is also involved in that profession and I can see how it would make you very self aware of every thing about your body. To not ruin what her former job was I will refrain from saying anything else except to say- this is the first time I’ve read of this occupation in a book. :)
Amber's quirkiness brought out Van's need to train people. His desire to break her free from her prison was a real growth moment for him. His willingness to help her was oddly fascinating. Her idiosyncrasy had him feeling things he had not felt for another human. Van has a heart?
The enigma of the man beneath the hood was mesmerizing and Van won me over with his alluring ways. I enjoyed watching him coerce our needy heroine into the woman he realized he may actually love. Even though, he is possessive and controlling...he is also captivating with his fierce, protective attention he doted on Amber.
I kept an open mind about my feelings for Van when I went into Vanquish and I wasn’t disappointed. I really liked Van in this book. Some things that freaked me out in the first book, his dolls and hair fetish, broke my heart when we learned the truth about the true purpose behind them.
The story was superb. Fascinatingly dark with a splash of sass and sarcasm. Although this is a dark book there are a few times that it made me laugh (for those of you who have read it, the needing to use the bathroom scene had me dying of laughter). Ms. Godwin's adds just enough humor in it to melt our hearts for Van. I’ve read 3 dark books written by Ms. Godwin and they’ve all been 5 star books. If you like dark books Ms. Godwin’s books are an excellent choice to read.
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
Available on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1vV1ytx
SERIES:
VANQUISH is a stand-alone, BUT if you intend to read Book #1, DELIVER, DO NOT read VANQUISH first. There are numerous references in this book that will spoil the surprises in DELIVER. If you don’t plan to read DELIVER, carry on. -from Ms. Godwin
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Brilliant! I was hooked from the first page until the last page.
I first met Van in ”Deliver” and he seemed so detached and menacing that I held him at distance. I was unsure if I could soften to him or not. When Ms. Godwin announced that there would be a Van book I knew I had to read it. I needed to know what made Van so disconnected and yet so frightening.
Van happened upon Amber on one of his nightly stalking adventures of Liv (from Deliver). Amber has issues. She suffers from OCD and agoraphobia. In little ways I could relate to Amber: her use of sarcasm, doing things in symmetrical groups of four (I don’t do that BUT four is my favorite number), and her OCD (I tend to be OCD when it comes to organizing my books, etc. I like to think of it as JUST being organized). One last way I could relate to Amber is with her former profession. My niece is also involved in that profession and I can see how it would make you very self aware of every thing about your body. To not ruin what her former job was I will refrain from saying anything else except to say- this is the first time I’ve read of this occupation in a book. :)
Amber's quirkiness brought out Van's need to train people. His desire to break her free from her prison was a real growth moment for him. His willingness to help her was oddly fascinating. Her idiosyncrasy had him feeling things he had not felt for another human. Van has a heart?
The enigma of the man beneath the hood was mesmerizing and Van won me over with his alluring ways. I enjoyed watching him coerce our needy heroine into the woman he realized he may actually love. Even though, he is possessive and controlling...he is also captivating with his fierce, protective attention he doted on Amber.
I kept an open mind about my feelings for Van when I went into Vanquish and I wasn’t disappointed. I really liked Van in this book. Some things that freaked me out in the first book, his dolls and hair fetish, broke my heart when we learned the truth about the true purpose behind them.
The story was superb. Fascinatingly dark with a splash of sass and sarcasm. Although this is a dark book there are a few times that it made me laugh (for those of you who have read it, the needing to use the bathroom scene had me dying of laughter). Ms. Godwin's adds just enough humor in it to melt our hearts for Van. I’ve read 3 dark books written by Ms. Godwin and they’ve all been 5 star books. If you like dark books Ms. Godwin’s books are an excellent choice to read.
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
Available on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1vV1ytx
SERIES:
VANQUISH is a stand-alone, BUT if you intend to read Book #1, DELIVER, DO NOT read VANQUISH first. There are numerous references in this book that will spoil the surprises in DELIVER. If you don’t plan to read DELIVER, carry on. -from Ms. Godwin
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
September 24, 2014
***BR with the superbly awesome Penelope!***
4.5 DARK & CRUDE STARS! ★★★★☆
“I'm the heir of torment, Amber. I'm the slippery footprints in your carpet. The creaking floor that steals air from your lungs. The hand that holds the gun. I'm the inescapable curse that caught you when you opened your door.”
After reading Deliver, I just couldn't wait to jump into Van’s story. I just know this was right up my alley because I love me some messed-up alpha male heroes! He was a complete enigma in the first book and now that an entire book is dedicated to his story, being excited would be a complete understatement for me :D
******
Vanquish picks up after the events in Deliver, where Van Quiso escaped death after taking a shot from Liv. Now that Liv & Josh are starting a new life, Van is still the same ole’ Van. He lurks in the shadows and stalks on them by camping out at the next-door house every night; he can’t seem to let go of Liv but most of all, he yearns to meet their daughter, Livina whom Liv has visitation rights to. During one of his stalking trips, he inadvertently stumbled across Amber who is actually the house owner of his little hideout spot.
Amber Rosenfeld, an ex-beauty pageant queen is far from perfect. She suffers from agoraphobia and have multiple issues ranging from OCD to self-esteem ones. Even making trips from her door to her mailbox outside proves to be an impossible feat for her. Her previous marriage has completely shattered her self-confidence and the thought of herself being seen in public would send her into a panic attack.
Once Van first spotted Amber, he was completely intrigued by her oddities and that stirs up a desire in him which he hadn’t felt for a woman in a while.
He wants her. And what Van wants, Van catches.
******
I must say that I truly enjoyed this so much more than I did with Deliver. Pam Godwin has a way of writing unique dark, gritty stories with well-written damaged characters. Even with some disturbing scenes written in, I didn't find them revolting at all and instead I was completely captivated.
Okay excuse me while I gush about my dear Van now in this part of my review.
Van is a pretty intense, complex character to begin with. He’s one of those dark, deadly and dangerous anti-heroes that I completely loved. He’s definitely no saint with all that he’s done in the past and even with his creepy doll fetishes or his brutal ways, I was still completely enamoured by his character.
Beneath that tough and terrifying exterior, we got to see a vulnerable side of him. We get to see a man who is not seemingly heartless and aches to be loved. Everything that he’d ever done has been masked with his best intentions at heart; you can’t even hate this man if you want to. He may be all sorts of fucked up but he’s trying so damn hard to be the father he aims to be for his daughter.
His character definitely shined throughout this book and literally had my feels all over the place. I appreciated that Pam did a fantastic job in executing the transition of Van’s character without completely butchering his initial dark & intense side. Even when he cared a lot for Amber, it was still obvious that his intensity and brutishness still remained. And with more light being shed on his past and allowing us to have glimpses of the damaged little boy he once was, my God, did it make me love Van even more.
Also, there was this one powerful scene that I absolutely loved which completely tugged at my heartstrings: . God, my heart genuinely ACHED so badly for him.
It took me a while to warm up to Amber’s character at the beginning but as the story progressed, I could slowly start to appreciate the struggles she’s been dealing with. She really had some strong moments which I loved. But taking her character as an entirety in this story, I wasn't completely sold. I almost felt like her issues here were simply served as a reason for Van to try to fix her & eventually form a bond with her. I just wasn't fully convinced that there was a proper solid connection between these two, given that Van & Liv shared a stronger one due to their history together. However, I did start feeling more invested in both Van & Amber’s relationship towards the 2nd half of the book & finally found myself rooting for them.
Overall, Pam has delivered yet another exceptional story with Vanquish. A heart-achingly story of two damaged souls who found love and acceptance in one another. Despite the dark and gritty storyline, there was a good dosage of wit and humour that balanced out the entire story. Added in with some angst and hot, steamy scenes, I can easily say this was no doubt a highly enjoyable read for me.
Would highly recommend everyone to read this if you're into dark romance (and so that we can all gush about Van together!) ♥♥♥
**Huge thanks to my ever awesome bestie, Penelope for picking this for our BR! Best choice made yet! :D**
4.5 DARK & CRUDE STARS! ★★★★☆
“I'm the heir of torment, Amber. I'm the slippery footprints in your carpet. The creaking floor that steals air from your lungs. The hand that holds the gun. I'm the inescapable curse that caught you when you opened your door.”
After reading Deliver, I just couldn't wait to jump into Van’s story. I just know this was right up my alley because I love me some messed-up alpha male heroes! He was a complete enigma in the first book and now that an entire book is dedicated to his story, being excited would be a complete understatement for me :D
******
Vanquish picks up after the events in Deliver, where Van Quiso escaped death after taking a shot from Liv. Now that Liv & Josh are starting a new life, Van is still the same ole’ Van. He lurks in the shadows and stalks on them by camping out at the next-door house every night; he can’t seem to let go of Liv but most of all, he yearns to meet their daughter, Livina whom Liv has visitation rights to. During one of his stalking trips, he inadvertently stumbled across Amber who is actually the house owner of his little hideout spot.
Amber Rosenfeld, an ex-beauty pageant queen is far from perfect. She suffers from agoraphobia and have multiple issues ranging from OCD to self-esteem ones. Even making trips from her door to her mailbox outside proves to be an impossible feat for her. Her previous marriage has completely shattered her self-confidence and the thought of herself being seen in public would send her into a panic attack.
Once Van first spotted Amber, he was completely intrigued by her oddities and that stirs up a desire in him which he hadn’t felt for a woman in a while.
He wants her. And what Van wants, Van catches.
******
I must say that I truly enjoyed this so much more than I did with Deliver. Pam Godwin has a way of writing unique dark, gritty stories with well-written damaged characters. Even with some disturbing scenes written in, I didn't find them revolting at all and instead I was completely captivated.
Okay excuse me while I gush about my dear Van now in this part of my review.
Van is a pretty intense, complex character to begin with. He’s one of those dark, deadly and dangerous anti-heroes that I completely loved. He’s definitely no saint with all that he’s done in the past and even with his creepy doll fetishes or his brutal ways, I was still completely enamoured by his character.
"His scarred beauty radiated seduction and danger, a deadly combination."
Beneath that tough and terrifying exterior, we got to see a vulnerable side of him. We get to see a man who is not seemingly heartless and aches to be loved. Everything that he’d ever done has been masked with his best intentions at heart; you can’t even hate this man if you want to. He may be all sorts of fucked up but he’s trying so damn hard to be the father he aims to be for his daughter.
His character definitely shined throughout this book and literally had my feels all over the place. I appreciated that Pam did a fantastic job in executing the transition of Van’s character without completely butchering his initial dark & intense side. Even when he cared a lot for Amber, it was still obvious that his intensity and brutishness still remained. And with more light being shed on his past and allowing us to have glimpses of the damaged little boy he once was, my God, did it make me love Van even more.
Also, there was this one powerful scene that I absolutely loved which completely tugged at my heartstrings: . God, my heart genuinely ACHED so badly for him.
It took me a while to warm up to Amber’s character at the beginning but as the story progressed, I could slowly start to appreciate the struggles she’s been dealing with. She really had some strong moments which I loved. But taking her character as an entirety in this story, I wasn't completely sold. I almost felt like her issues here were simply served as a reason for Van to try to fix her & eventually form a bond with her. I just wasn't fully convinced that there was a proper solid connection between these two, given that Van & Liv shared a stronger one due to their history together. However, I did start feeling more invested in both Van & Amber’s relationship towards the 2nd half of the book & finally found myself rooting for them.
"I will always love you, I will always want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you. - Van"
Overall, Pam has delivered yet another exceptional story with Vanquish. A heart-achingly story of two damaged souls who found love and acceptance in one another. Despite the dark and gritty storyline, there was a good dosage of wit and humour that balanced out the entire story. Added in with some angst and hot, steamy scenes, I can easily say this was no doubt a highly enjoyable read for me.
Would highly recommend everyone to read this if you're into dark romance (and so that we can all gush about Van together!) ♥♥♥
**Huge thanks to my ever awesome bestie, Penelope for picking this for our BR! Best choice made yet! :D**
January 6, 2015
”He should leave the poor girl to deal with her demons, but instinct demanded he take control of this… of her.”
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Pam Godwin this was one hell of a book two! Although, you do not have to read book one of this series to jump into this story. Van Quiso is a dark character and in book one I feared him and his doll collection as well as his twisted feelings for Liv BUT he won me over instantly in this book. He was intelligent, dangerous, funny and all he wants is to establish contact with his daughter and have some sort of relationship with her.
Amber was wonderful, I just loved her and her issues that kept her hidden in house. She was funny and tough while being crushed by her assortment of problems. (Her dressing up to get the mail and leave her door had to be one of my fav scenes.) Van is out of the slave trade business but Amber has caught his eye and kidnapping her for himself is his game plan.
”He was a cold-hearted fuck with an appetite for blood, come, and tears. And he had the perfect girl to feed it.”
When Amber awakes and finds herself in his cabin in the woods she debates her options…
”What’s it gonna be, Amber? A life under his roof or a life filled with puking, sleeping pills, deliverymen, and loneliness?”
Amber makes the decision to stay. Van works with Amber through some of her issues as Van opens up to her about his past crimes, past hurts and the future he wants with his daughter. I was actually caught off guard by one scene that had me so choked up.
"I will always love you, I will always want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you. - Van
.
Amber and Van were amazing together, they were funny, heart breaking and oh so sexy. Two damaged characters that find acceptance and strength in one another. My only issue with the story was that I wanted more, call me greedy but I was all settled in and could have read about them for hours and hours more.
Please give us another book helping Camila take down the new slave ring.
Van's already in so it's up to you Pam!
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Pam Godwin this was one hell of a book two! Although, you do not have to read book one of this series to jump into this story. Van Quiso is a dark character and in book one I feared him and his doll collection as well as his twisted feelings for Liv BUT he won me over instantly in this book. He was intelligent, dangerous, funny and all he wants is to establish contact with his daughter and have some sort of relationship with her.
Amber was wonderful, I just loved her and her issues that kept her hidden in house. She was funny and tough while being crushed by her assortment of problems. (Her dressing up to get the mail and leave her door had to be one of my fav scenes.) Van is out of the slave trade business but Amber has caught his eye and kidnapping her for himself is his game plan.
”He was a cold-hearted fuck with an appetite for blood, come, and tears. And he had the perfect girl to feed it.”
When Amber awakes and finds herself in his cabin in the woods she debates her options…
”What’s it gonna be, Amber? A life under his roof or a life filled with puking, sleeping pills, deliverymen, and loneliness?”
Amber makes the decision to stay. Van works with Amber through some of her issues as Van opens up to her about his past crimes, past hurts and the future he wants with his daughter. I was actually caught off guard by one scene that had me so choked up.
"I will always love you, I will always want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you. - Van
.
Amber and Van were amazing together, they were funny, heart breaking and oh so sexy. Two damaged characters that find acceptance and strength in one another. My only issue with the story was that I wanted more, call me greedy but I was all settled in and could have read about them for hours and hours more.
Please give us another book helping Camila take down the new slave ring.
Van's already in so it's up to you Pam!
November 10, 2021
It's a miracle how I was able to finish this gem over here regarding I'll be having exams for the next 2 weeks😂😂😂😭 You can see how greedy I am for books lol😭😏 Review to come later😭😭😭😭
August 28, 2014
4.5-5 Stars
This book surprised me. I was expecting dark. Super dark. I mean, in Deliver, Van scared the hell out of me. He was intriguing but equally terrifying. In Vanquish, I got to see a whole new side. Van is pretty freaking adorable. He's funny and sweet, when he isn't tying people up and whipping them, that is. He wants to be a better person, to be a part of his daughters life.
"I'll convince her I can be a good father, that I'm not a threat."
Amber is an ex beauty queen with some pretty interesting issues, including agoraphobia. Van runs into her one night while 'checking' in on Liv. He is instantly interested in this strange girl.
What was wrong with this girl? The intensity of her fear resonated deep within the depraved part of his being. It was as intoxicating as her beauty, but where did it come from? What was she afraid of?
Van knows he should stay away from her. It's obvious she has issues, but he can't help himself. I wants her. So he takes her.
He was a cold-hearted fuck with an appetite for blood, come, and tears. And he had the perfect girl to feed it.
These two are all kinds of messed up. But their story was enthralling. Two damaged characters, finding the acceptance and love they have been denied. They both share heartbreaking memories, but can they find a brighter future, together?
They both carried a million cracks beneath the skin. Even under the stark light of the fluorescents, it was hard to see which of them was more broken. But for the first time, she felt like she had to vanquish her mental illness not for herself but for someone else. Because she was broken with him, and if she fixed herself, maybe she could make him a little less broken, too.
I was captivated by this story, Van and Amber were great characters. I really enjoyed their banter. This story has some disturbing parts, I certainly got squeamish a few times, but I couldn't help but pull for them. My main grip, is I wanted more. I would love to read more about them.
"I will always love you, I will always want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you. - Van
This book surprised me. I was expecting dark. Super dark. I mean, in Deliver, Van scared the hell out of me. He was intriguing but equally terrifying. In Vanquish, I got to see a whole new side. Van is pretty freaking adorable. He's funny and sweet, when he isn't tying people up and whipping them, that is. He wants to be a better person, to be a part of his daughters life.
"I'll convince her I can be a good father, that I'm not a threat."
Amber is an ex beauty queen with some pretty interesting issues, including agoraphobia. Van runs into her one night while 'checking' in on Liv. He is instantly interested in this strange girl.
What was wrong with this girl? The intensity of her fear resonated deep within the depraved part of his being. It was as intoxicating as her beauty, but where did it come from? What was she afraid of?
Van knows he should stay away from her. It's obvious she has issues, but he can't help himself. I wants her. So he takes her.
He was a cold-hearted fuck with an appetite for blood, come, and tears. And he had the perfect girl to feed it.
These two are all kinds of messed up. But their story was enthralling. Two damaged characters, finding the acceptance and love they have been denied. They both share heartbreaking memories, but can they find a brighter future, together?
They both carried a million cracks beneath the skin. Even under the stark light of the fluorescents, it was hard to see which of them was more broken. But for the first time, she felt like she had to vanquish her mental illness not for herself but for someone else. Because she was broken with him, and if she fixed herself, maybe she could make him a little less broken, too.
I was captivated by this story, Van and Amber were great characters. I really enjoyed their banter. This story has some disturbing parts, I certainly got squeamish a few times, but I couldn't help but pull for them. My main grip, is I wanted more. I would love to read more about them.
"I will always love you, I will always want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you. - Van
September 25, 2015
'Vanquish' tells Van's story, picking up after Liv and Joshua have started their new lives together in Austin, and explaining his haunted past. I really enjoyed watching Van evolve as he struggled with his demons and tried to make himself a better man, worthy of his daughter's love. In the process, he crosses paths with Amber, a beautiful woman struggling with her own insecurities and compulsions. As their relationship grows more intimate, they help to heal one another in some very unconventional ways.
This series continues to set itself apart from others in the kidnapping genre with a unique vibe and intriguing, original characters. Yes, the storyline is predictable, but there are many surprising elements that make this series quite different and keep it interesting. If you're looking for a very dark and graphic account with a heavy dose of sadism, you won't find it here. Those elements are present, but remain in the background and are definitely not the focal point of this book.
Though it wasn't exactly what I expected, I thought it was a good book and would recommend it.
This series continues to set itself apart from others in the kidnapping genre with a unique vibe and intriguing, original characters. Yes, the storyline is predictable, but there are many surprising elements that make this series quite different and keep it interesting. If you're looking for a very dark and graphic account with a heavy dose of sadism, you won't find it here. Those elements are present, but remain in the background and are definitely not the focal point of this book.
Though it wasn't exactly what I expected, I thought it was a good book and would recommend it.
September 3, 2015
5 Stars!!!!
After finishing Deliver, there was no doubt about continuing to Vanquish! I had to read more about Van Quiso to discover what makes this man tick. Vanquish is one amazing read and I’ll try to write my review without any major spoilers.
Vanquish opens about a year after Deliver ends. Liv and Josh are pursuing their lives together while Van is left to move on with his life alone. While succumbing to his old stalking habits, Van accidentally comes upon Amber – a woman who suffers from debilitating agoraphobia and a few other disorders. At first, Amber’s beauty entrances Van but her sassy mouth and quirky ticks intrigue Van so much that his current stalking quest is suppressed and he redirects his subversive thoughts toward Amber. As Amber becomes Van’s capture, his sole purpose is to use Amber to effect a connection with the one person that Van truly and unconditionally loves – his beautiful daughter, Livana.
”Love and hate are closely related expressions of the same intensity. Both require passion, and neither follow logic.”
With Amber’s capture, an unexpected journey occurs forcing Van and Amber to face their fears and to peel back the layers of emotional baggage. Van is such a commanding presence – the type of person whose presence you immediately feel in a room – and Van uses his “alpha-ness” to try to help Amber by metaphorically “pulling her balls from her cunt.” In trying to fight her predicament, Amber rebels verbally against Van and their banter was not only quite entertaining, but it showed that Amber actually has a backbone despite her low self-esteem issues. Van’s tactics to cure Amber are very “Van-like” – using methods that the average person would not employ, but during these lessons he is trying to take her worry. (Such a romantic notion.)
”His entire fucking world flipped inside out, everything he knew about intimacy crumbling away to be replaced by something softer, farther-reaching, and intensely terrifying.”
Van is a complex and sexy dirty talking character, but we learn so much more about him. At first, his doll collection appears to be some sort of kinky fetish, but we learn why he has a penchant for these dolls, revealing details from his heartbreaking childhood and his nonnegotiable need to control. When Amber gifted Van with her creation, it was heartwarming and a big step for Van. Her gesture takes their relationship in a different direction, as they learn to unconditionally accept each other’s damaged sides.
”Dark matter holds the universe together. His lips twitched. It also threatens to destroy it.”
Acceptance is a central theme in this plot and Van truly evolves as a character in a purely believable way. However, in order to move forward Van realizes that Amber must exercise her free will. He knew how Liv never loved him and she resented his forced control upon her. For Van and Amber to have any kind of trusting and equal relationship, Van had to wait for her to choose and desire him. The wait was excruciating and I would have liked to know more about how Van handled that period, but it was a period of self-discovery while he was paving the way toward a life with Livana.
It has taken me a long time to write a review for Vanquish. The reason is because it is such a powerful book that I felt a review could barely do the story any justice! There are times when you want to strangle some sense into Van, Amber and Liv! Other times, you want to do all sorts of dirty things with Van!! As the reader, I experienced so many different emotions. You have these dynamic characters with very real problems, but Pam Godwin knows her characters well and doesn’t cheat the reader in any way from a full reading experience. I highly recommend this book!
Note: This was a (F)BR with my friend Elizabeth (Liz)! Thanks for all the memories!
After finishing Deliver, there was no doubt about continuing to Vanquish! I had to read more about Van Quiso to discover what makes this man tick. Vanquish is one amazing read and I’ll try to write my review without any major spoilers.
Vanquish opens about a year after Deliver ends. Liv and Josh are pursuing their lives together while Van is left to move on with his life alone. While succumbing to his old stalking habits, Van accidentally comes upon Amber – a woman who suffers from debilitating agoraphobia and a few other disorders. At first, Amber’s beauty entrances Van but her sassy mouth and quirky ticks intrigue Van so much that his current stalking quest is suppressed and he redirects his subversive thoughts toward Amber. As Amber becomes Van’s capture, his sole purpose is to use Amber to effect a connection with the one person that Van truly and unconditionally loves – his beautiful daughter, Livana.
”Love and hate are closely related expressions of the same intensity. Both require passion, and neither follow logic.”
With Amber’s capture, an unexpected journey occurs forcing Van and Amber to face their fears and to peel back the layers of emotional baggage. Van is such a commanding presence – the type of person whose presence you immediately feel in a room – and Van uses his “alpha-ness” to try to help Amber by metaphorically “pulling her balls from her cunt.” In trying to fight her predicament, Amber rebels verbally against Van and their banter was not only quite entertaining, but it showed that Amber actually has a backbone despite her low self-esteem issues. Van’s tactics to cure Amber are very “Van-like” – using methods that the average person would not employ, but during these lessons he is trying to take her worry. (Such a romantic notion.)
”His entire fucking world flipped inside out, everything he knew about intimacy crumbling away to be replaced by something softer, farther-reaching, and intensely terrifying.”
Van is a complex and sexy dirty talking character, but we learn so much more about him. At first, his doll collection appears to be some sort of kinky fetish, but we learn why he has a penchant for these dolls, revealing details from his heartbreaking childhood and his nonnegotiable need to control. When Amber gifted Van with her creation, it was heartwarming and a big step for Van. Her gesture takes their relationship in a different direction, as they learn to unconditionally accept each other’s damaged sides.
”Dark matter holds the universe together. His lips twitched. It also threatens to destroy it.”
Acceptance is a central theme in this plot and Van truly evolves as a character in a purely believable way. However, in order to move forward Van realizes that Amber must exercise her free will. He knew how Liv never loved him and she resented his forced control upon her. For Van and Amber to have any kind of trusting and equal relationship, Van had to wait for her to choose and desire him. The wait was excruciating and I would have liked to know more about how Van handled that period, but it was a period of self-discovery while he was paving the way toward a life with Livana.
It has taken me a long time to write a review for Vanquish. The reason is because it is such a powerful book that I felt a review could barely do the story any justice! There are times when you want to strangle some sense into Van, Amber and Liv! Other times, you want to do all sorts of dirty things with Van!! As the reader, I experienced so many different emotions. You have these dynamic characters with very real problems, but Pam Godwin knows her characters well and doesn’t cheat the reader in any way from a full reading experience. I highly recommend this book!
Note: This was a (F)BR with my friend Elizabeth (Liz)! Thanks for all the memories!
November 18, 2015
I'm not sure what took me so long to read Pam Godwin...but boy am I glad I did!!
This is a dark, erotic thriller/romance. If you're ok with dark...then you NEED to read VANQUISH!!!
Highly recommend!
This is a dark, erotic thriller/romance. If you're ok with dark...then you NEED to read VANQUISH!!!
Highly recommend!
June 3, 2024
I had so much mixed emotions reading it. Both has very dramatic pasts and I was so invested in Amber's story. I highly disliked Van in parts of the book but at the same time thinking him an Amber was meant for each other. Intense and very addicting read. Glad I have one or two books left of the series on my shelfs.
October 24, 2014
Before I begin my review, I just wanted to take a minute to reiterate the author's note to those who have not read Deliver (#1): VANQUISH is a stand-alone, BUT if you intend to read Book #1, DELIVER, DO NOT read VANQUISH first. There are numerous references in this book that will spoil the surprises in DELIVER. So before reading this review or this book, please keep this note in mind =)
*~*~*~*~*
So I was one of those readers who chose to skip the first book and dive directly into Vanquish. This was one of those books where I read the blurb and KNEW that I was going to love it. Not only can I say that Vanquish by Pam Godwin is one of my favorite dark romances of the year, it is now sitting on my favorites shelf <3
"They both carried a million cracks beneath the skin. Even under the stark light of the fluorescents, it was hard to see which of them was more broken."
The beauty of this book for me was the characters. Pam Godwin created two intricately flawed individuals with complicated histories that left them with deep emotional scars. Individually, they are both damaged and broken but together they seem to compliment one another and bring out each others' strengths. It was captivating to watch the two of them grow as individuals and face the ghosts from their past.
Van ended up being so much more than I expected <333 At first, I wanted to hate him. He is accustomed to doing horrific things and is completely unrepentant about it. But then I started learning more about his past and got a glimpse into his vulnerable side and my heart just melted. Van's dominant personality and need for control made him the perfect match for Amber. He pushed her out of her comfort zone and was determined to help her overcome her fears. I loved his determination and that he refused to give up on Amber even when it seemed like it was a hopeless task.
Amber is a woman that lives in a self-imposed prison. She suffers from OCD and agoraphobia which basically means she can't leave her house without having a severe panic attack. You would think that these issues would mean that she would come across as weak but that is definitely not the case! I loved how strong and courageous Amber was. While her disorders did dictate her day to day routine, when it really mattered, Amber was completely selfless and fought fiercely to overcome her fears.
*~*~*~*~*
Vanquish by Pam Godwin exceeded my expectations in so many ways. If you are a fan of dark romances, I really only have three words for you: READ THIS BOOK!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review. My review is included in my stop for the Vanquish blog tour. You can read my full review, an excerpt, and enter the giveaway HERE
*~*~*~*~*
So I was one of those readers who chose to skip the first book and dive directly into Vanquish. This was one of those books where I read the blurb and KNEW that I was going to love it. Not only can I say that Vanquish by Pam Godwin is one of my favorite dark romances of the year, it is now sitting on my favorites shelf <3
"They both carried a million cracks beneath the skin. Even under the stark light of the fluorescents, it was hard to see which of them was more broken."
The beauty of this book for me was the characters. Pam Godwin created two intricately flawed individuals with complicated histories that left them with deep emotional scars. Individually, they are both damaged and broken but together they seem to compliment one another and bring out each others' strengths. It was captivating to watch the two of them grow as individuals and face the ghosts from their past.
Van ended up being so much more than I expected <333 At first, I wanted to hate him. He is accustomed to doing horrific things and is completely unrepentant about it. But then I started learning more about his past and got a glimpse into his vulnerable side and my heart just melted. Van's dominant personality and need for control made him the perfect match for Amber. He pushed her out of her comfort zone and was determined to help her overcome her fears. I loved his determination and that he refused to give up on Amber even when it seemed like it was a hopeless task.
Amber is a woman that lives in a self-imposed prison. She suffers from OCD and agoraphobia which basically means she can't leave her house without having a severe panic attack. You would think that these issues would mean that she would come across as weak but that is definitely not the case! I loved how strong and courageous Amber was. While her disorders did dictate her day to day routine, when it really mattered, Amber was completely selfless and fought fiercely to overcome her fears.
*~*~*~*~*
Vanquish by Pam Godwin exceeded my expectations in so many ways. If you are a fan of dark romances, I really only have three words for you: READ THIS BOOK!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review. My review is included in my stop for the Vanquish blog tour. You can read my full review, an excerpt, and enter the giveaway HERE
September 25, 2014
Book – Vanquish (Deliver #2)
Author – Pam Godwin
Publication Date – August 25, 2014
Type – Part of Series but can be read as a Stand-Alone
Genre – Romance/Dark
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars
Review
If you remember correctly…when my angels and I read Deliver – I was the only one who loved Liv. Even though my love for Liv’s character was extreme, nothing compared to the feelings I had for Van. In the beginning, Van was hated…I mean I despised the man and the smug attitude he had. It wasn’t until I got his whole story, that my heart bled for him.
Now with Vanquished….Holy Shit…I was floored. Ms Godwin does it again – she captivated me – mesmerized me and captured my heart with Van and Amber.
It was so easy to connect with both of these characters and I’m telling the honest truth when I say that I didn’t want this book to end.
I can’t even find the words to express my true emotions after reading this book. I’ve put off writing a review until I was able to put my feelings together, but I’m sorry, it was impossible. My head is still reeling from how accurate Amber was written and the 360 Van did!!
Word to describe this book = WOW
Re-Cap
It’s been a year since Van disappeared and he is on a mission – stalking Liv nightly from an abandoned house on the porch. But see, it really isn’t abandoned…instead it is occupied by Amber…a total knock out – ex beauty queen – agoraphobic – OCD ----- oh and so many other fucked up problems I can’t list.
Van suddenly decides to change his tactic and plans on breaking Amber but things start to happen and it seems that Amber has the ability to make Van a better person.
Wrap-Up
I’m so happy that Van finally got his book and got to tell his whole story…does he get a HEA? Is it even possible for him to be happy or does he get his vengeance on Liv?
This is definitely a book I would recommend to everyone who loves a bit of taboo that switches on you!
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Author – Pam Godwin
Publication Date – August 25, 2014
Type – Part of Series but can be read as a Stand-Alone
Genre – Romance/Dark
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars
Review
If you remember correctly…when my angels and I read Deliver – I was the only one who loved Liv. Even though my love for Liv’s character was extreme, nothing compared to the feelings I had for Van. In the beginning, Van was hated…I mean I despised the man and the smug attitude he had. It wasn’t until I got his whole story, that my heart bled for him.
Now with Vanquished….Holy Shit…I was floored. Ms Godwin does it again – she captivated me – mesmerized me and captured my heart with Van and Amber.
It was so easy to connect with both of these characters and I’m telling the honest truth when I say that I didn’t want this book to end.
I can’t even find the words to express my true emotions after reading this book. I’ve put off writing a review until I was able to put my feelings together, but I’m sorry, it was impossible. My head is still reeling from how accurate Amber was written and the 360 Van did!!
Word to describe this book = WOW
Re-Cap
It’s been a year since Van disappeared and he is on a mission – stalking Liv nightly from an abandoned house on the porch. But see, it really isn’t abandoned…instead it is occupied by Amber…a total knock out – ex beauty queen – agoraphobic – OCD ----- oh and so many other fucked up problems I can’t list.
Van suddenly decides to change his tactic and plans on breaking Amber but things start to happen and it seems that Amber has the ability to make Van a better person.
Wrap-Up
I’m so happy that Van finally got his book and got to tell his whole story…does he get a HEA? Is it even possible for him to be happy or does he get his vengeance on Liv?
This is definitely a book I would recommend to everyone who loves a bit of taboo that switches on you!
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 16, 2014
***
BR with the spectacularly amazing Jasmine!
***
FOUR AND A HALF STARS! FOUR AND A HALF STARS! FOUR AND A HALF STARS! FOUR AND A HALF STARS!
Vanquish is the story of how two tormented souls, an ex-slave trafficker and an agoraphobe, who in their utter brokenness, hope to vanquish their own demons so as to bring healing to the other.
And boy, am I glad that I read this! This book was absolutely amazing; the writing, the characters, the heartache, the banter, the kinky sex all drew me in until all I could do was stare lovingly at my kindle and roll in all these glorious feels.
I love me a messed up hero. If he's an asshole, my assholelustaemia (why, yes, this is a legit condition) certainly perks up and makes itself known. Add in a little bit of weakness and tender feelings for the heroine and I will never recover. That's Van Quiso in a nutshell. An asshole that has absolutely ruined me. I will be honest though, when I first read about him sitting on the abandoned porch and jerking off, I couldn't stop myself from laughing, thinking how much of a loser he seemed. But as his story unfolds, as we find out about his devastating past, and he makes the slow and painful journey to redeeming himself, I couldn't help but be bowled over by how much I felt for him. This asshole really has ruined me, gah.
And if you think his tender feelings for the heroine has made him stray from his dark and badass character, then have yourself a quote:
What I found utterly surprising though was just how much I loved Amber Rosenfeld. Her thought processes were so heartbreaking to read, I couldn't even begin to imagine how hard it would be to live her life. It takes an incredible amount of strength and courage for her to face down her demons; and whilst she initially tries to do it for Van's sake, I was hella proud of her when she did it for her self (and she damn well succeeded as well)! I also loved her smart mouth. She may be down, she may have shut herself inside for over two years, but boy does she have a lot of spunk! Neither is she afraid to say what's on her mind. I think this is what ultimately makes her character work for me. Had she been a timid, soft spoken and shy character with the mental illness and the OCD, I don't think I would have connected with her as much, so I was over the moon when she had herself some attitude.
Additionally, I don't think I would have enjoyed how she and Van came together if Amber wasn't so amazing with that attitude of hers. Their banter when they first meet was absolutely hilarious to read, both dishing it up to the other and not pulling their punches. I think this is what makes them perfect for each other. Yes, they may have common ground in their shared brokenness, but its their personalities and character traits that compliment each other. Amber's feistiness and strength allows Van the freedom to delve into his dark desires without breaking her spirit, but rather, pushes her limits and her boundaries. In the same way, her desire to please and her determination allows Van to find resolve, to become a better man not only for his daughter, but for this crazy woman who he'll give up his happiness for.
So, why not five stars? Honestly, I was so close to giving five stars, but I had to deduct half a star because there's a certain trigger-warning scene that I wished hadn't happened. While I think it was definitely realistic given the situation and handled brilliantly by the author afterwards, I still wished it hadn't happened. Though I will say, it brought about one of my favourite quotes:
Overall, this was spectacularly amazing. I definitely would recommend this to anyone out there who's looking for a dark romance. And if this is on your TBR list and you haven't gotten around to it, what are you waiting for? Get reading. :D
FOUR AND A HALF STARS! FOUR AND A HALF STARS! FOUR AND A HALF STARS! FOUR AND A HALF STARS!
Vanquish is the story of how two tormented souls, an ex-slave trafficker and an agoraphobe, who in their utter brokenness, hope to vanquish their own demons so as to bring healing to the other.
People who know me can readily attest to the very sad and very puny stomach that I possess, a fact that is not only embarrassing but also dictates that I surround myself in sugary sweet reads. So you can imagine how apprehensive I was with starting this book. After reading the author's note confirming that Vanquish could be read as a standalone, I was more than happy to bypass Deliver, which I have been told would have most likely shrivelled up my insides and turned me into a prune._____✘_____
And boy, am I glad that I read this! This book was absolutely amazing; the writing, the characters, the heartache, the banter, the kinky sex all drew me in until all I could do was stare lovingly at my kindle and roll in all these glorious feels.
I love me a messed up hero. If he's an asshole, my assholelustaemia (why, yes, this is a legit condition) certainly perks up and makes itself known. Add in a little bit of weakness and tender feelings for the heroine and I will never recover. That's Van Quiso in a nutshell. An asshole that has absolutely ruined me. I will be honest though, when I first read about him sitting on the abandoned porch and jerking off, I couldn't stop myself from laughing, thinking how much of a loser he seemed. But as his story unfolds, as we find out about his devastating past, and he makes the slow and painful journey to redeeming himself, I couldn't help but be bowled over by how much I felt for him. This asshole really has ruined me, gah.
And if you think his tender feelings for the heroine has made him stray from his dark and badass character, then have yourself a quote:
He wanted to tell her this, wanted her to know how much her actions moved him.[...]So he settled on a thickly uttered "Thank you."Ah, Van, you make me feel so damn giddy.
"You're welcome."
He placed the doll in a paper bag and tucked it under his arm. With one last glance at Amber, he squared his shoulders and hardened his expression. "I'm whipping your ass when I get home."
What I found utterly surprising though was just how much I loved Amber Rosenfeld. Her thought processes were so heartbreaking to read, I couldn't even begin to imagine how hard it would be to live her life. It takes an incredible amount of strength and courage for her to face down her demons; and whilst she initially tries to do it for Van's sake, I was hella proud of her when she did it for her self (and she damn well succeeded as well)! I also loved her smart mouth. She may be down, she may have shut herself inside for over two years, but boy does she have a lot of spunk! Neither is she afraid to say what's on her mind. I think this is what ultimately makes her character work for me. Had she been a timid, soft spoken and shy character with the mental illness and the OCD, I don't think I would have connected with her as much, so I was over the moon when she had herself some attitude.
Additionally, I don't think I would have enjoyed how she and Van came together if Amber wasn't so amazing with that attitude of hers. Their banter when they first meet was absolutely hilarious to read, both dishing it up to the other and not pulling their punches. I think this is what makes them perfect for each other. Yes, they may have common ground in their shared brokenness, but its their personalities and character traits that compliment each other. Amber's feistiness and strength allows Van the freedom to delve into his dark desires without breaking her spirit, but rather, pushes her limits and her boundaries. In the same way, her desire to please and her determination allows Van to find resolve, to become a better man not only for his daughter, but for this crazy woman who he'll give up his happiness for.
So, why not five stars? Honestly, I was so close to giving five stars, but I had to deduct half a star because there's a certain trigger-warning scene that I wished hadn't happened. While I think it was definitely realistic given the situation and handled brilliantly by the author afterwards, I still wished it hadn't happened. Though I will say, it brought about one of my favourite quotes:
Her gaze didn't waver from his as she swallowed. "I will never forget. But maybe someday, I might be able to forgive."
A surge of emotion pulled at his jaw and gathered in his throat. "I don't deserve forgiveness."
Overall, this was spectacularly amazing. I definitely would recommend this to anyone out there who's looking for a dark romance. And if this is on your TBR list and you haven't gotten around to it, what are you waiting for? Get reading. :D
August 30, 2014
4-4.5 STARS
Vanquish is the second book in Pam Godwin’s Deliver series. You can read it as a standalone if you don’t plan reading Deliver, the first book in the series.
Van is not a good guy. An anti-hero, he was the villain in Deliver. He did a lot a bad things and he’s a really fucked up man. He doesn’t care for many people, but he cares for his daughter Livana. He wants to show Livana that she wasn’t something she resented and he wants to give her a father’s love. But for this, she needs to convince Liv that she loves his daughter and he wants to be a real father for her. He’s stalking Liv house when he meets Amber.
Amber is a 34 years old woman. She has some issues, agoraphobia being the worst one.
Van is hypnotized by Amber and after he finds out about her problems he wants to help her. He wants Amber to prove he is a good father.
And Amber is intrigued by Van. For her he’s “a perfect imperfection”. She doesn’t really hate him, not even when Van is a sadistic son of a b*tch.
At first, Van cruel, but soon he can’t help himself and he wants to know the real Amber, to know about her past and her issues. He also trust and tells Amber about his past and his scars.
They are both damaged, but they are perfect for each other. They learn to trust and accept each other. In some way they heal each other.
I really enjoyed this story. I think more than the first one in the series. I enjoyed the dialogue and banter between Van and Amber and I really liked how they give each other the strength to move on. I liked Amber and I liked Van too, even if in the first half of the book was a like his old self. There are some intense and disturbing parts in this story, but they didn’t bother me so much, maybe because I knew Amber will change Van. And she really did.
Vanquish is the second book in Pam Godwin’s Deliver series. You can read it as a standalone if you don’t plan reading Deliver, the first book in the series.
“He was a kidnapper, a rapist, and she ached to be repulsed by him, just to prove she was sane, but she couldn't. And she wasn't. His scarred beauty radiated seduction and danger, a deadly combination.”
Van is not a good guy. An anti-hero, he was the villain in Deliver. He did a lot a bad things and he’s a really fucked up man. He doesn’t care for many people, but he cares for his daughter Livana. He wants to show Livana that she wasn’t something she resented and he wants to give her a father’s love. But for this, she needs to convince Liv that she loves his daughter and he wants to be a real father for her. He’s stalking Liv house when he meets Amber.
Amber is a 34 years old woman. She has some issues, agoraphobia being the worst one.
Van is hypnotized by Amber and after he finds out about her problems he wants to help her. He wants Amber to prove he is a good father.
“He wanted to shelter her from the onslaught. He wanted to see her eyes shine bright and protect that light. He wanted to free her.”
And Amber is intrigued by Van. For her he’s “a perfect imperfection”. She doesn’t really hate him, not even when Van is a sadistic son of a b*tch.
At first, Van cruel, but soon he can’t help himself and he wants to know the real Amber, to know about her past and her issues. He also trust and tells Amber about his past and his scars.
They are both damaged, but they are perfect for each other. They learn to trust and accept each other. In some way they heal each other.
“He wanted to be her security, her anchor, her fucking everything. Not as her captor but as her lover.”
I really enjoyed this story. I think more than the first one in the series. I enjoyed the dialogue and banter between Van and Amber and I really liked how they give each other the strength to move on. I liked Amber and I liked Van too, even if in the first half of the book was a like his old self. There are some intense and disturbing parts in this story, but they didn’t bother me so much, maybe because I knew Amber will change Van. And she really did.
“I will always love you, I will always want you, and I will never ever be disappointed in you.”
June 19, 2017
It's... something else.
I have no idea how to rate this one. I can't really forgive the male MC for what he's done and can't help but feel like he deserves everything he's getting. True, I haven't read the previous book, but it's weird to like the "bad guy".
I can't say I liked the heroine either, but I did like her a lot more than him. She's definitely a strong character though.
If you decide to read this one, prepair for something different than what you're used to. Different bad or good, well, that's for you to decide.
I have no idea how to rate this one. I can't really forgive the male MC for what he's done and can't help but feel like he deserves everything he's getting. True, I haven't read the previous book, but it's weird to like the "bad guy".
I can't say I liked the heroine either, but I did like her a lot more than him. She's definitely a strong character though.
If you decide to read this one, prepair for something different than what you're used to. Different bad or good, well, that's for you to decide.
July 20, 2015
How messed up that I fell in love with Van, but for real!! I love him!!
August 30, 2014
4.5 You're Mine Stars!
(BR with Sharon, Jennifer & Brandi)
Van Quiso is a 33 yr. old broken, lonely man living in a remote cabin in Austin,Texas. He had a hard childhood, and never experienced genuine love or affection. He has lived a life void of morals doing despicable things as a slave deliverer. He seems to lack a conscience, and has been dead inside for years until he fell in love with a slave named Liv Reed who never returned his affections.
After being shot, Van's life completely changes. He is done with delivering slaves, and his obsession, Liv has started over with a man she is in love with named Joshua. It is a year after Van was shot, and he still feels empty, alone, & misses Liv. He knows she is happy, and he needs to let her go, but he still feels like she belongs to him. He knows it's wrong, but he can't help himself from driving to her house & watching her through the windows.
One evening while watching Liv from the house next door that he thinks is abandoned, a woman walks outside & doesn't seem to notice him at first. She is stunning, & Van is extremely attracted to her. When she finally notices him, she is too busy in her own meltdown. This woman completely fascinates Van, & takes his mind off Liv. He decides she is the perfect distraction, & he wants to figure her out.
She lets him inside her home & he can immediately see from her place that she has major OCD. Everything is in perfect order. He decides he wants a new play toy, and this woman Amber Rosenfeld is going to be his captive. He knows from the way she takes in his body with her eyes that she feels an attraction for him too. He uses this to his advantage & begins planning how to make her his.
Van begins stalking her, and realizes this woman has some serious issues. She has lived with agoraphobia, and is trapped in her own little world. She suffers from intense fear & panic attacks & hasn't been outside in two years until she tried to get her mail the day Van first saw her. She is a former beauty queen & fitness model who went from being in the public eye to a helpless, lonely, isolated shut in.
Van's obsession for her continues to grow & he kidnaps her & takes her back to his cabin where he plans to make her his. He is used to just taking what he wants without caring about others feelings. He wants to be Amber's obsession, all she needed & wanted. Things don't go smoothly at first, but eventually we see a softer side to Van, & a tenderness I didn't know existed. He is an intense, complex, messed up man, but also has a heart deep down that just wants to be loved.
As Van & Amber begin to feel an undeniable connection to each other, Van begins to want to help her. He realizes her phobias consume her & that she is vulnerable & drowning in her own fears & anxiety. He wants her to be whole & conquer her disorders. He begins to help her fix her poor self image by reminding her how beautiful & desirable she is. (& let me just say...holy hotness, I thoroughly enjoyed this part.) She gets stronger by his side, & becomes very attached to him. She makes him want to be a better man, & they fall hard for each other. They both wanted acceptance & were scared of rejection & insecure. They find everything they need in one another. I wasn't sure I could care about Van after reading Deliver, but I was pleasantly surprised with his transformation by the end of this book! Was so happy he found love! :D
-"You are a lovely woman, but you will never hear that until you believe it yourself."
-This fearful, sassy, crazy woman had awoken something inside him.
-He knew the effect he had on women. Whether it was their fascination with big, scary men with scars or their complete dismissal of danger, he only needed to flash a smile to lure them in.
-She tried to fight it, but she was too weak, too lost to the drugging glide of his lips, the salacious pressure of his teeth, and the undivided focus of his desire.
-She didn't know him, but she imagined he could love someone as fiercely as he hurt them. It would take a strong, willing person to survive his brand of passion.
-He held still, aching for her kiss. Not to take her lips but to give her his, just to experience a moment of surrender, to be at her mercy.
-His entire fucking world flipped inside out, everything he knew about intimacy crumbling away to be replaced by something softer, farther-reaching, and intensely terrifying.
-Fuck him, but he wanted to be her security, her anchor, her fucking everything. Not as her captor but as her lover.
-She was his weakness, and with a confidence that punctuated every revelation he'd come to accept since he'd taken her, there wasn't a damned thing he'd do to change it.
-He was quiet, perhaps thoughtful, as he snuggled against her, seemingly content with her affection, neither dismissing it nor demanding more. Laid-back, unassuming Van was irresistible.
-There was something unequivocal about pleasing a man as controlling and calculating and adoring as Van Quiso. No need to think. She simply obeyed, placing all her pleasure, and her pain, in his strong and capable hands.
(BR with Sharon, Jennifer & Brandi)
Van Quiso is a 33 yr. old broken, lonely man living in a remote cabin in Austin,Texas. He had a hard childhood, and never experienced genuine love or affection. He has lived a life void of morals doing despicable things as a slave deliverer. He seems to lack a conscience, and has been dead inside for years until he fell in love with a slave named Liv Reed who never returned his affections.
After being shot, Van's life completely changes. He is done with delivering slaves, and his obsession, Liv has started over with a man she is in love with named Joshua. It is a year after Van was shot, and he still feels empty, alone, & misses Liv. He knows she is happy, and he needs to let her go, but he still feels like she belongs to him. He knows it's wrong, but he can't help himself from driving to her house & watching her through the windows.
One evening while watching Liv from the house next door that he thinks is abandoned, a woman walks outside & doesn't seem to notice him at first. She is stunning, & Van is extremely attracted to her. When she finally notices him, she is too busy in her own meltdown. This woman completely fascinates Van, & takes his mind off Liv. He decides she is the perfect distraction, & he wants to figure her out.
She lets him inside her home & he can immediately see from her place that she has major OCD. Everything is in perfect order. He decides he wants a new play toy, and this woman Amber Rosenfeld is going to be his captive. He knows from the way she takes in his body with her eyes that she feels an attraction for him too. He uses this to his advantage & begins planning how to make her his.
Van begins stalking her, and realizes this woman has some serious issues. She has lived with agoraphobia, and is trapped in her own little world. She suffers from intense fear & panic attacks & hasn't been outside in two years until she tried to get her mail the day Van first saw her. She is a former beauty queen & fitness model who went from being in the public eye to a helpless, lonely, isolated shut in.
Van's obsession for her continues to grow & he kidnaps her & takes her back to his cabin where he plans to make her his. He is used to just taking what he wants without caring about others feelings. He wants to be Amber's obsession, all she needed & wanted. Things don't go smoothly at first, but eventually we see a softer side to Van, & a tenderness I didn't know existed. He is an intense, complex, messed up man, but also has a heart deep down that just wants to be loved.
As Van & Amber begin to feel an undeniable connection to each other, Van begins to want to help her. He realizes her phobias consume her & that she is vulnerable & drowning in her own fears & anxiety. He wants her to be whole & conquer her disorders. He begins to help her fix her poor self image by reminding her how beautiful & desirable she is. (& let me just say...holy hotness, I thoroughly enjoyed this part.) She gets stronger by his side, & becomes very attached to him. She makes him want to be a better man, & they fall hard for each other. They both wanted acceptance & were scared of rejection & insecure. They find everything they need in one another. I wasn't sure I could care about Van after reading Deliver, but I was pleasantly surprised with his transformation by the end of this book! Was so happy he found love! :D
-"You are a lovely woman, but you will never hear that until you believe it yourself."
-This fearful, sassy, crazy woman had awoken something inside him.
-He knew the effect he had on women. Whether it was their fascination with big, scary men with scars or their complete dismissal of danger, he only needed to flash a smile to lure them in.
-She tried to fight it, but she was too weak, too lost to the drugging glide of his lips, the salacious pressure of his teeth, and the undivided focus of his desire.
-She didn't know him, but she imagined he could love someone as fiercely as he hurt them. It would take a strong, willing person to survive his brand of passion.
-He held still, aching for her kiss. Not to take her lips but to give her his, just to experience a moment of surrender, to be at her mercy.
-His entire fucking world flipped inside out, everything he knew about intimacy crumbling away to be replaced by something softer, farther-reaching, and intensely terrifying.
-Fuck him, but he wanted to be her security, her anchor, her fucking everything. Not as her captor but as her lover.
-She was his weakness, and with a confidence that punctuated every revelation he'd come to accept since he'd taken her, there wasn't a damned thing he'd do to change it.
-He was quiet, perhaps thoughtful, as he snuggled against her, seemingly content with her affection, neither dismissing it nor demanding more. Laid-back, unassuming Van was irresistible.
-There was something unequivocal about pleasing a man as controlling and calculating and adoring as Van Quiso. No need to think. She simply obeyed, placing all her pleasure, and her pain, in his strong and capable hands.
April 28, 2016
Gray like his eyes, the perfect blend of light and dark.
This book takes place after Deliver. But you do not need to read Deliver to read Vanquish. It is a standalone but honestly I would definitely read Deliver anyway just because it is such a good book even though this can be read as a standalone as well.
My Favorite book yet my the lovely Oyster Pam Godwin. I don’t know how she does it. After each book I read by her I tell myself, yep this one is my favorite.
She’s brilliant I tell you.
AND the best part of this all is VAN!!!
Van is so fucking sexy. GOD I LOVE HIM. He’s fucked up, twisted but really unique. There is not a character out there that can lay a hand on Van, in my eyes. But the best part is that you get his POV FINALLY!!! I've always wondered what it would be like in Van’s head and it’s a beautiful sight A beautiful sight indeed.
This is a duel POV. Which brings me to the Amber.
Amber is off her fucking rocker lets me just throw that out there. Amber, seems broken beyond repair. Amber suffers from agoraphobia and OCD. Amber is funny, brave, smart, weak, breakable, and I love all of those things about her because it makes her who she is. There were times when I felt so bad for her, her agoraphobia is a huge part of her life as well as her OCD, but at times I just laughed at how fucked up she really is and the things she does. She's out there but so lovable at the same time. Am I jealous of her right now? Fuck yes I am.
The sex was unbelievable that will make your panties wet for sure. Be sure to have an extra pair and, a finger or two. :) Just saying be prepared. I believe I might have a slight obsession over Van, and I am not sure it will be going away anytime soon if ever. He completes me. ♥
Between Van and Amber they are perfect for each other. They both have fucked up past, they are each fighting their own demons. But, when you bring both of them together they complete each other perfectly. They have a strong bond and get each other. No one has ever Van the way Amber does and accepts him for the fucked up, twisted mother fucker that he is. Just melts my heart.
While reading Vanquish, there was a time when all my feelings I felt for Deliver, came out during reading this and it made me stop reading just to think back at Deliver, and I just smiled. That book was amazing and when reading this one it make me appreciate both books that much more.
Pam, did a wonderful job on writing these two characters. The depth that Pam, went into this book that made me never feel there there was a duel moment, the pace is perfectly balance, but there is only one thing she did wrong. I wanted more!!!! My god, I wanted more.
This is not a dark erotica. This is more of a psychological romance.
I was on of the beta readers for this book.
September 4, 2014
Ever since reading Deliver, I've been dying to know Van's story...and what a story it is. He's the ultimate bad boy...and ultimate scary man but there's a tenderness under the surface that's just dying to come out.
Van was nothing like I thought he would be. He's been "hunkafied" in this book...well, maybe he even was in the first book but I just never made that connection. However, I had no problem with it in this book. Van is hot and all the girls want him!
My heart went out to Amber...I can see why Van was so taken with her, heck, even I wanted to help her. She is one messed up chick...and while the OCD is not bad, the agoraphobia is a mother! It really make you have a whole new understanding of people with that condition.
Van and Amber don't meet under the best of conditions and their initial encounters are pretty bleak. Van is pretty brutal and is was a bit much to take in. Luckily by getting both their POVs, we get to see how they work through things and how they both learn from their mistakes.
There is a lot of steaminess but it's mostly a lot of dark steaminess. They both have problems and they use sex to deal. It gets sooo much better when their feelings get involved!
Van does have a heart of gold when it comes to Amber and while his methods are unconventional, I loved how he changed from wanting to break her down to making her better.
Amber also wanted to help Van. I loved what they did with the dolls and where things went from there.
I enjoyed Liv and Josh being back in the picture - they were both sooo good! I don't blame their reactions but I'm glad about what happened after.
I loved the ending. It will be interesting to see where things go from here and if there's another book. (it sure was set up for one!)
Favorite quotes
♥ “Just give me one reason why you're holed up.” Give him something vulnerable he could break off and sharpen into teeth.
“I'll give you several.” Her tone was clipped, angry. “I'm allergic to pollen. I'm hiding a dead body. And I don't like you.”
♥ “Let's call it an exorcism. I'm not officially trained, but I'm well-versed in demons.”
♥ “The greater half of fucked-up squared.”
♥ “How about you follow your nose down here and taste the rainbow?”
♥ "That's not love, Amber, which was why I never thought to free her.”
♥ “If you want to psychoanalyze me, please consider all of my syndromes. As well as your own capture-bonding relationship.”
♥ “I made little Van voodoo dolls and stabbed them with toothpicks.”
*BR w/Melissa, Jennifer & Brandi!*
Van was nothing like I thought he would be. He's been "hunkafied" in this book...well, maybe he even was in the first book but I just never made that connection. However, I had no problem with it in this book. Van is hot and all the girls want him!
My heart went out to Amber...I can see why Van was so taken with her, heck, even I wanted to help her. She is one messed up chick...and while the OCD is not bad, the agoraphobia is a mother! It really make you have a whole new understanding of people with that condition.
Van and Amber don't meet under the best of conditions and their initial encounters are pretty bleak. Van is pretty brutal and is was a bit much to take in. Luckily by getting both their POVs, we get to see how they work through things and how they both learn from their mistakes.
There is a lot of steaminess but it's mostly a lot of dark steaminess. They both have problems and they use sex to deal. It gets sooo much better when their feelings get involved!
Van does have a heart of gold when it comes to Amber and while his methods are unconventional, I loved how he changed from wanting to break her down to making her better.
Amber also wanted to help Van. I loved what they did with the dolls and where things went from there.
I enjoyed Liv and Josh being back in the picture - they were both sooo good! I don't blame their reactions but I'm glad about what happened after.
I loved the ending. It will be interesting to see where things go from here and if there's another book. (it sure was set up for one!)
Favorite quotes
♥ “Just give me one reason why you're holed up.” Give him something vulnerable he could break off and sharpen into teeth.
“I'll give you several.” Her tone was clipped, angry. “I'm allergic to pollen. I'm hiding a dead body. And I don't like you.”
♥ “Let's call it an exorcism. I'm not officially trained, but I'm well-versed in demons.”
♥ “The greater half of fucked-up squared.”
♥ “How about you follow your nose down here and taste the rainbow?”
♥ "That's not love, Amber, which was why I never thought to free her.”
♥ “If you want to psychoanalyze me, please consider all of my syndromes. As well as your own capture-bonding relationship.”
♥ “I made little Van voodoo dolls and stabbed them with toothpicks.”
*BR w/Melissa, Jennifer & Brandi!*
April 6, 2021
I read this so long ago that I barely remember anything, but I think about Van and his toothpick enough that I figured it was time to go back and reread and see if he holds up.
sadly.... no 😔 The MC's chemistry felt forced and the story was meh. Van wasn't half as crazy here, talk about squandered potential. I thought Liv was a dumbass for passing Van up in book 1 *butttttt* given what a despicable human being he'd been to her personally........ her arguments carried merit (in fact if we wanna get real here I'm the dumb bitch for shipping them 💀). He was borderline irredeemable and if I were her, my ass would be running the other way too. But even tho Van is a monster and has done truckloads of deplorable things, he's also been through some heavy shit so he turned out pretty good for what he could've potentially been
HAHA JUST KIDDING, he pretty much is the worst possible outcome
lets take a look at Van'skinks crimes over the last two books:
→ beating and raping almost a dozen women & men
→ sex trafficking
→ murder
→ jacking off to an agoraphobic woman who's crying and shaking mid panic attack because she can't leave her house
→ kidnapping and raping said agoraphobic woman
→ dolls w human hair (don't ask)
Now sarcasm aside, I will say there are admirable qualities in Van, aside from him being an insane motherfucker who gives no shits.
1. Van Quiso is no sexist. he treats men and women the same and I love how free he is with his own sexuality
2. He did end up curing that agoraphobic woman of her disorder (through very questionable means, ill admit) but still.... props to Van for doing the bare minimum
Ultimately tho, this book was a disappointment and I just didn't like the story :/ I kind of wish I hadn't reread it bc it ruined the idea of Van and his toothpick I had in my memory. Sorry to this man...
sadly.... no 😔 The MC's chemistry felt forced and the story was meh. Van wasn't half as crazy here, talk about squandered potential. I thought Liv was a dumbass for passing Van up in book 1 *butttttt* given what a despicable human being he'd been to her personally........ her arguments carried merit (in fact if we wanna get real here I'm the dumb bitch for shipping them 💀). He was borderline irredeemable and if I were her, my ass would be running the other way too. But even tho Van is a monster and has done truckloads of deplorable things, he's also been through some heavy shit so he turned out pretty good for what he could've potentially been
HAHA JUST KIDDING, he pretty much is the worst possible outcome
lets take a look at Van's
→ beating and raping almost a dozen women & men
→ sex trafficking
→ murder
→ jacking off to an agoraphobic woman who's crying and shaking mid panic attack because she can't leave her house
→ kidnapping and raping said agoraphobic woman
→ dolls w human hair (don't ask)
Now sarcasm aside, I will say there are admirable qualities in Van, aside from him being an insane motherfucker who gives no shits.
1. Van Quiso is no sexist. he treats men and women the same and I love how free he is with his own sexuality
So what? He also made dolls with the same hands he fingered assholes with. If any of that made him gay, then he'd take it up the ass all the way to hell.
2. He did end up curing that agoraphobic woman of her disorder (through very questionable means, ill admit) but still.... props to Van for doing the bare minimum
“You're going to rape me, aren't you?”
“I thought you wanted to be fuck buddies. Don't make it weird.”
Ultimately tho, this book was a disappointment and I just didn't like the story :/ I kind of wish I hadn't reread it bc it ruined the idea of Van and his toothpick I had in my memory. Sorry to this man...
August 25, 2016
review later but i dont care if i sound sick and luckily im not alone here but Van is hot in a twisted kind of way i do however agree with him and Liv fans even from the small snipets of them in the book there chemistry is palpable i even want to read Deliver to know more abought there reletionship. Ok im finaly awake long enough to write a full review i personaly didnt find this book that dark the most dark parts for me were when Van remembered his past and the Human trafficking memories also Ambers seizurs , i could relate to her because im a very self concius person muself and often worry what others think abought me only Amber didnt have suport of a loving family the funy thing is Van even though they had a rocky start was the only one who understood her, i didnt realy get involved in there reletionship untill closer to the end though, and considering Vans major obssesion with Liv i do feel he turned obssesed with Amber a bit to quick , now for smut lovers such as myself this book had some siriusly hot scines going on and despite all he did for some reoson i didnt feel Van was that much of a bastard though if i read book one i might hate him there PS ok i changed my mind i dont want him with Liv anymore i hate his guts in Deliver he changed so much and treats Amber much better IMO. And now Disclaim is coming in so exited hope thell be moor Van and Amber there too, even, if as secondery charecters, and it woud be lovely to See Liv and Josh too and maybe Van and Livs daughter
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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